When little Nina woke up, Briony was already on the phone.

She stood by the window, her back to the bed.

Nina watched her mother quietly. She knew Mom was busy, but her mouth felt dry and she wanted a drink.

"Mom..."

At the sound of her voice, Briony turned, but just then the hospital room door swung open and a figure dressed in black hurried in, reaching Nina's bedside before Briony could.

"What does little Nina need?"

Briony paused in her tracks.

With Blair shrouded head to toe in black—a dark hat pulled low and a mask covering all but his eyes-any child would normally shrink away in fear.

But for some reason, little Nina always felt safe around Blair.

"Mr. Monroe, I'm thirsty, could I have some water?"

Blair's voice softened. "Of course. Just stay still, I'll get you some."

"Thank you, Mr. Monroe," Nina replied, her voice as gentle as a whisper. Curled

up in bed, she looked so fragile it made your heart ache.

Blair reached out to touch her cheek, then turned to fetch water, only to find himself meeting Briony's gaze unexpectedly.

of nervousness flashing in

were busy. Since your little one woke up, I was worried she

his voice deep and rough, sounding nothing like the

she gave a faint

moment. Was he just being

called again, her eyes wide with

"Water, please?"

and lowered the bed rail. With gentle hands, he propped Nina up so she was half-reclining, then held the

rush

much better. She looked up at Blair, her bright eyes curving into a

unable to hide

gently settled Nina back, tucking

to the doctor, little Nina. That's the only way

After a moment, she looked up at him. "Mr. Monroe, will you stay with me for a

caught off

up, "I have another call to

to look

met his

that alright?"

apple bobbing with the effort to answer. "Of

brushing her hand

had

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