Jessica tightened her hold on Sean’s arm as they stepped further into the house. Despite his reassuring words, she could see the strain in his movements. The cane supported his weight, but every step seemed to cost him a little more.
“Sean,” she said softly, her voice lined with worry, “you shouldn’t be walking around like this. You need to rest.”
He gave her a lopsided smile, one that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I’ll rest when I know you’re safe, Jess.”
His words hit her harder than she expected. Sean had always been the protective older brother, even when they were kids. But now, the stakes were so much higher, and his determination to shield her was no longer just a sibling’s instinct—it was survival.
Armando stood silently by the door, watching their interaction. His pres
