[center][color=teal][h2]Jessamyn "Jess" Bailey[/h2][/color][/center]

Jess sighed. [color=teal]"You sure?"[/color] she asked, although nothing she said or did could get rid of that resigned feeling Roxy trailed with her like a shadow. It was clear that the anchor didn't want to deal with people, except her customers, and even then it depended which ones. The fact that it was all for good reason didn't ease Jess' guilt at dragging Roxy around as if she were some kind of everyday living aid instead of a human being.

She continued her deep breathing as she headed down the stairs. [i]Don't make her notice,[/i] she told herself. [i]Don't bring about what you're trying to prevent. Don't get Roxy into trouble.[/i]

[color=teal]"Sorry about that!"[/color] she called once in the doorway of the living room. [color=teal]"So, uh, where to? I was thinking the Carbonara Corner."[/color]

Her mom looked up with a smile. [color=aqua]"So, Italian food's still your favourite?"[/color]

Jess nodded, although that wasn't the only reason. [color=teal]"Roxy, is that ok with you?"[/color] she asked, turning towards the anchor. [color=teal]"It's just a short walk."[/color] That was the real reason. The anchor didn't need to be dragged along on another car journey right after she'd put up with one for her sake. Nothing was going to make Roxy feel welcome or even respected, but Jess had resolved to try and minimise the stress this weekend would cause - even if the operative word there was "try".