POV Estela
I glance around nervously, making sure no one’s watching, then scoop my daughter into my arms. Mark won’t know the difference between her and Riley. And as long as Killian doesn’t see me, I can steal this moment.
I murmur a quick excuse and slip away, retreating down the hallway until I find an empty classroom.
Minutes ago, I swore I wouldn’t do this again. I told myself I’d walk away if it happened.
But now she’s here. In my arms. Pale. Exhausted.
Her final surgery is next week. It will be a long, painful road before she can truly come back into my life. But with that looming over us, I can’t let this chance slip away.
I run my fingers gently through her soft curls and whisper, “Hello, little one.”
She doesn’t hesitate, her voice groggy but clear.
“Mommy, why are you hi
