Gale forced the sides of her mouth into a smile. Certainly, Charlotte was upset almost to the point of hysterics, but an argument between family members didn't seem to be something serious. She was bleeding, though.

"I'll get you a glass of water."

The girl got up from her seat, returned with a glass of water in hand and placed it on a side table next to Charlotte.

Her mind wandered to the prospect of saying something next.

[i]"Such things happen."[/i]

Gale mentally shook her head. Too callous.

[i]"Why?"[/i]

She tossed that option out of her mind. It sounded too direct.

[i]"Does this always happen?"[/i]

Gale grinded her teeth in self-disgust. Whatever the situation was, Gale was still at a loss in saying anything remotely compassionate. Sighing mentally, Gale sat down beside Charlotte and extended a hand slowly to her shoulder, holding it slowly in what she thought was a gesture of comfort.