Leandra sat beside Kael's hospital bed, her eyes fixed on the monitors beeping around him. Her little boy's fever had finally broken, and the doctor's prognosis was hopeful. But the cost of treatment was staggering, and Leandra's mind was consumed by worry.
She thought back to the day she'd approached Xenon for help. She'd been hesitant to ask, knowing their complicated history, but desperation had driven her to swallow her pride. Xenon had agreed to cover the expenses, but Leandra knew she couldn't avoid him forever.
As she gazed at Kael's peaceful face, Leandra felt a pang of guilt. She'd kept Kael's paternity a secret, unsure of how Xenon would react. But now, with Xenon's financial support, she knew she couldn't keep the truth hidden for much longer.
The door opened, and a nurse ent
