In The Clear - Out Of The Woods Sequel - A Taylor Swift Fanfiction

Chapter 22: New Friendships

Author's note: I'm practicing subtle "show don't tell" tone changes to lead the narrative and give more information about the character without revealing it, let me know if you can catch it in this chapter 👀☺️

In the comfort of Swift home, a quiet tension hung in the air. Today was important, a necessary step in understanding and addressing Madison's eating disorder - she was getting a blood test done.

Dr. Harris, the family's trusted doctor, had come over to conduct Madison's ongoing health assessment. Madison sat on the sofa, trying to mask her anxiety with a brave face, but her parents knew her too well.

Taylor sat next to Madison, holding her hand. Travis stood behind the sofa, with one hand on Madison's shoulder. They both understood Madison's fear and were there to support her through every step.

"It's going to be okay, babe," Taylor whispered, squeezing Madison's hand gently. "We're right here with you. Just a quick pinch, and it'll be over before you know it. You've done these before."

Madison nodded, drawing in a deep breath, trying to find solace in her mother's words. Her eyes were wide, but she continued to take deep breaths in order to calm her nerves. She's had plenty of shots over the past few years, but her fear of needles never went away.

Travis moved closer, offering a reassuring smile. "You're the bravest person I know, girlie. You've got this," he said, his voice steady and strong.

Dr. Harris, sensing Madison's apprehension, approached with kindness that had always made him more of a family friend than just a doctor. "Madison, I'll be as quick and gentle as possible, just like last time. You might not even notice it," he promised, his tone gentle and understanding.

As the moment approached, Madison closed her eyes tight, holding her breath the entire time. Taylor and Travis exchanged worried glances, their hearts aching for their daughter.

The room was silent, save for the soft words of encouragement from Taylor and Travis. "Keep breathing, baby. Focus on us. Think about something happy, something that makes you smile," Taylor spoke, her voice a beacon of calm in the storm of Madison's fear.

Madison, taking her mom's advice, tried to conjure up memories of happier times - singing along to her favorite songs, the laughter shared on family vacations, the comforting smell of Taylor's baking filling the house.

Then, as quick as it had begun, it was over. Dr. Harris did his work with such expertise that Madison barely felt the needle. She opened her eyes, surprised how she felt almost nothing.

"See? All done. You did great!" Dr. Harris said, giving her a high five.

As Dr. Harris made his way to the door, Madison's attempt to lighten the mood lingered in the air, leaving a brief, uncomfortable silence.

"I guess being dead inside helped this time," she said, not quite realizing the weight of her words until they were out.

"I'm just kidding, god people, does no one here have a dark sense of humour?!" Madison quickly added, trying to dispel the tension her comment had created.

Dr. Harris, now ready to leave, turned with a professional smile, choosing to gloss over Madison's quip. "I'll come back with the results in a week, and we can take it from there," he reassured them.

"Thank you," Taylor responded, her smile genuine but her eyes still holding a flicker of concern for Madison's earlier remark.

As Taylor escorted Dr. Harris out, Travis sat down next to Madison, giving her a look that mixed exasperation with affection. "You really know how to keep us on your toes, don't you?" he said, trying to keep the mood light.