Jessica returned to the hotel earlier than planned.

She'd thought about switching to a different hotel, but realized it didn't matter—if Timothy could track her down here, he'd find her anywhere.

So, she decided not to bother.

Maybe it was the weight of her emotions, but as soon as she got back, a dull ache started in her abdomen and wouldn't let up.

She took her medication, but it didn't help much.

Now, she lay on the bed, unable to sleep-pain gnawing at her, keeping her wide awake.

Meanwhile, Timothy's call was cut off the moment he dialed.

That's when it struck him: Jessica had blocked his number.

A strange, hollow ache settled in his chest.

He turned back to the hospital room, checked Henry's forehead with a hand towel -only to find it was already warm.

He quickly wrung out a fresh towel, folded it, and placed it gently on Henry's brow. Then, slipping Henry's smartwatch from his wrist, Timothy stepped into the hallway and tried Jessica's number once more.

Jessica's phone buzzed.

The caller ID said Henry.

She froze, gripping the phone tightly.

the end, she let the call ring

else to fill the role of 'Mom.' What was the

was

let him slowly

on the speakerphone, until the call dropped

must have

answer her own child's

dark eyes were as deep

gone out of his way to buy her that voice-activated

person a small gesture of apology for how

the olive branch, she just kept pushing

Unbelievable.

calling Jessica again. He returned to the hospital room and sat by Henry's side, tending to him through the

was a long, exhausting

fever had finally subsided, though a mild temperature lingered. At least it

carried everything into the bathroom.

face and spoke up, worry etched in her voice. "Timothy, you haven't

He just nodded.

concern obvious. "Go home and get some rest. I'll stay with

appreciate it," he

been so sweet to me-taking care of him is the least I can do. You should really get some sleep. And if you run into Jessica, be gentle with her, okay? Kids recover faster when their own mom is by their

the mention of Jessica, Timothy's lips pressed into a

he coddled her any more,

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255