⸻
Kate
Rachel was gone. Even Mother had left.
It was just my father now—he had run into an old business acquaintance and stopped for a long chat.
Now, he was in Emma’s room, saying goodbye.
I said softly, “Daddy, would you like to have a cup of coffee?”
He looked uncomfortable, shifting on his feet, and replied, “No… I think I should go now. Say bye to Alex for me.”
I simply nodded, picked up his coat, and handed it to him.
Just then, Martha came rushing in with panic on her face. “Kate… oh God, Kate—Aria’s burning up! She’s dizzy—we have to take her to the doctor, now!”
The moment she said “Aria,” I didn’t waste a single second. I ran.
I ran to my baby.
She was burning in my arms.
I started crying, my voice trembling, “My baby… oh God… Martha, get my car keys!”
I cradled Aria
