Chapter Text
The next few days felt like waking up in a slightly different world. Hailey noticed subtle differences that made her smile in quiet moments: her face felt softer, her arms and hands lighter and more delicate, and the faint beard shadow she had expected after shaving never returned.
In the lab, she moved with a new awareness, gently testing circuits and wires, and catching herself smiling more freely than she had in months. Beta hovered nearby, buzzing drones and laughter, noticing subtle differences immediately.
“Hailey,” Beta said one morning, “you look… brighter. Like you’re glowing from the inside!”
Hailey laughed, shoving her short hair out of her face with trembling hands. It was still short, but it was softer now, waiting to be let grow out when she decided. She didn't know how to describe the feeling quite — relief, joy, and something of thrill — but she knew, finally, she could be herself.
The Professor observed from the other side of the lab, taking notes but smiling in quiet pride. Hailey saw her eyes meet hers and nodded, a silent thank-you exchanged between them. It wasn't solely the supplement — it was this cautious, consistent support that made everything seem attainable.