As they made their way to the car, Kiera helped Kenzie settle in, ensuring she was comfortable before starting the engine. The drive to Kiera's training was quiet at first, the weight of the doctors words hanging heavily between them. After a few minutes of tense silence, Kiera glanced over at Kenzie, who was staring out the window with a distant look in her eyes. " How are you feeling, Kenzie?" Kiera asked softly, breaking the quiet.
Kenzie sighed, her voice barely above a whisper "I don't know," she admitted her fingers fidgeting nervously. "It's a lot to process."
Kiera nodded sympathetically, her heart aching for Kenzie's turmoil. "I know sweetheart," she said gently. "But you're not alone in this. We'll take it one step at a time, okay?"
Kenzie nodded slowly, her gaze shifting to meet Kiera's with a mix of gratitude and uncertainty.

As Kiera parked at the training facility, she and Kenzie stepped out into the bustling atmosphere of the Melbourne Vixens' training session. Hannah, a friendly and enthusiastic player, approached them with a warm smile.

"Hey Kenzie, come join us for warm ups!!" Hannahs exclaimed cheerfully.

Kenzie's heart sank as she glanced down at her feet in frustration. Without a word, she turned and ran away, tears welling up in her eyes. Concerned, Hannah turned to Kiera, her expression filled with confusion.
"I'm sorry, Kiera," Hannah said softly, her voice tinged with worry. "Did I say something wrong?"
Kiera shook her head gently, placing a reassuring hand on Hannah's shoulder. " it's not your fault," she replied calmly. "Kenzie is going through a tough time right now."

Sophie and Rudi, noticing Kenzie's distress, hurried after her. They found her sitting alone on a bench, shoulder slumped and hands trembling.

"Hey Kenzie," Sophie said gently, kneeing beside her. "Are you okay?"
Kenzie sniffled, wiping tears from her cheeks. "I just .... I can't join in," she murmured, her voice cracking with emotion.
"It's okay," she reassured her. "You don't have to do anything you're not ready for, we're here for you."
Sophie nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with empathy. "Take your time, Kenzie," she said softly." We'll support you no matter what."

Slowly Kenzie nodded, feeling a glimmer of comfort in their understanding. With Sophie and Rudi by her side she walked back to the main court and watched as the training went on.