Chapter 16 Across the hospital, in another wing, Brenda sat by her son Steves bed, her hands trembling as she stroked his hair.
Machines beeped steadily, a stark reminder of the fragility of his life.
Come on, baby, she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

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Hang in there, my boy.
Ill do anything to fight for you.
Just hang in there, for Mommy.
Please.
Steves frail chest rose and fell erratically, and Brenda bit back a sob as she dialed Ryans number again.
The line rang endlessly, but there was no answer.
Her desperation boiled over, and she threw the phone onto the empty chair beside her.
When a seizure overtook Steve moments later, Brenda screamed for help, clutching his hand as nurses rushed in.
Tears streamed down her face as she watched helplessly, begging the universe for a miracle.
*** Hours later, the doctor approached, his expression grim.
Mrs.
Adams, Im sorry.
Weve done everything we can, but without the payment for a… his chances are very low.
The words knocked the breath from Brendas lungs.
No, she whispered, her voice cracking.
You cant… you have to keep trying.
Well do our best to keep him stable, the doctor said softly.
As he walked away, Brenda turned back to Steve, collapsing into the chair beside him.
Her shoulders shook as she cried into her hands.
Mommy wont give up on you.
I promise.
Ill do whatever it takes.
*** Later that night, Brenda ventured to the hospital cafeteria for coffee, her face pale and tear-streaked.
As she turned a corner, her steps faltered.
Ryan was in the hallway outside the ER, standing close to Amelia.
His hand rested lightly on her shoulder as they spoke in low tones, and the easy way they leaned toward each other made Brendas stomach churn.
Ryan handed Amelia a tissue, and she dabbed at her eyes, her expression softening as he said something that made her nod.
Brendas knuckles whitened as she gripped the coffee cup.
Watching them together felt like a fresh wound reopening.
Hed been ignoring her calls while supporting her.
Her vision blurred with tears as she stumbled back toward Steves room.
She stared at her son, his tiny form dwarfed by the machines around him, and her resolve hardened.
If Ryan wouldnt help willingly, shed force him to.
Her sons life depended on it.
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