an's

tightening the knot in my stomach. Instead of comfort, those sounds bec

shes had thrown faint shadows across his pale cheeks, and even in

r my life to spin out of control-just

ice rough and thin. "Mom

forced a shaky smile, sitting on the edge of the bed so he knew I

away the desperation and

mes your heart aches because it's filled with so much love and courage. It

nt of curiosity brighteni

ori

ps memories of that day at the beach-the way you dashed across the sand so quickly, you might as well have taken flight. It remembers Emily laughi

iny smile. "Does my heart r

so caught up in these memories and adventures, it forgets to stay steady. It skips or races

ing no longer seemed so threatening. Instead, it

eart feel better?" Leo aske

m. "Doctors are like conductors of a grand orchestra. They'll teach your heart to play its

e-eyed wonder, the shadows

brave, isn't it, M

lied, pressing a kiss to his forehead. "And you

gave everything to keep us safe came rushing

t takes, I'll help you

*

eil appeared at the door with

still new at work, it's better not to extend your leave. Come back tomorrow, and Emily and I will

to be strong, just like you always say-a real warrior," my son said, putti

I squeezed his hand and leaned close. After kissing his hand, I tu

y, Neil caught up and slipp

ed to put it together. Please, don't say no. I reali

off before he could say more. "Let me ha

ince I was unemployed last year and my current

nversation, I hurried out of th

s what I had managed to save myself, I

d for any possible way to