SUZAN'S POV
"Ow!" Julian whimpered as I gently dabbed at the stitches on his arm with antiseptic. His little body flinched at the sting, and I winced along with him, trying my best to steady my hand.
"I'm almost done, baby," I whispered softly, offering him a reassuring smile even though my heart was heavy. He clutched his worn-out Barney toy against his chest, squeezing his eyes shut, trying to be brave. The sight twisted something deep inside me.
When I finally finished, I carefully wrapped his small arm with a fresh bandage and helped him slip his shirt back on. "There you go, handsome. All done."
He looked up at me with those innocent eyes. "Thank you, Mommy. Can I have my candy now?" he asked, his voice still a little shaky but filled with hope.
I chuckled softly, bru
