Nancy knew what to do when boys cried. It was part of growing up the way she had, surrounded by them. Don't make fun, don't draw attention to it, just allow it, and be there. Still, that didn't stop her from using her thumbs to wipe his tears.

He was right, though. Not many got to see this part of her. This side was reserved for those she was closest to. Kenzi had had her crying into her chest just days ago. Kenzi didn't know her in the same way Cooper did. The same way her clients did. Or even just random people she interacted with. It was a different shade for every person.

"You don't owe me a damn thing, Cooper," she promised him. That was who Nancy was, the type of girl who would open her vein and her home to you, and in this case, at the same time. She reached over and took one of his hands in hers. "I'm always here for you, alright? You know it's the truth because I'm saying it now." Fucking curse. Silently, she brought their hands up to her mouth and gentle kissed his knuckles.

All she really had to do was do what she knew she would have wanted in this situation. "I love you, alright? So don't forget it." And though she loved many, she didn't say it often.