Chapter 23 The soft hum of the air purifier filled the room as Ryan sat beside Debbys bed, his hand resting lightly on hers.
She stirred, her eyelids fluttering open for a brief moment before settling back into a peaceful sleep.
It was a small victory, but one that filled Ryan with a sense of relief he hadnt felt in days.
The house had shifted since the twins moved in.
Medical staff came and went, checking on Debby, ensuring her IVs and medications were in place.

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Damien buzzed about, alternating between his video games and hovering near his sisters door.
Ryan had hired a nurse to stay on hand at all times, but it was clear his presence mattered most to the children.
Daddy? Debbys faint voice broke through his thoughts, and Ryan leaned closer.
Im here, sweetheart, he said gently.
Is Mommy coming today? she asked, her small hand tugging at the blanket.
Ryans throat tightened.
Shell be here soon.
She calls every hour to check on you.
Debby nodded weakly before drifting off again.
Ryan exhaled, running a hand through his hair.
The thought of Brenda and her threats still lingered, but for now, Debby was stable, and that was all that mattered.
*** Amelia arrived at the school for a parent-teacher meeting, the brisk autumn air nipping at her cheeks as she hurried into the building.
It felt strange being away from Debby, but she knew Damien needed her focus, too.
Inside, the classroom was alive with colorful posters and bookshelves crammed with stories about space adventures and mischievous animals.
Amelia spotted Damien standing near a tall, sandy-haired man who was crouched to his level, listening intently.
Thats Mr.
Hayes, Damien said as Amelia approached.
Hes my favorite teacher.
Amelia smiled as James Hayes straightened, offering her a warm handshake.
You must be Damiens mom.
Ive heard so much about you.
Only good things, I hope, she replied, her tone light but guarded.
Only the best, James said with a grin.
Damien talks about you all the time.
Youre doing a great job with himand Debby, too.
Amelia blinked, caught off guard by the genuine compliment.
Thank you.
That means a lot.
After the meeting, James caught up with Amelia by the exit.
If you ever want updates on how theyre doing, feel free to reach out.
Damiens really thriving in class, and Debbys a star in reading club.
Amelia chuckled softly.
She loves books.
Always has.
James nodded, his expression thoughtful.
Its amazing what kids can do when they feel supported.
And they clearly have that from you.
The warmth in his voice lingered with her as she left the school, a small flicker of something unfamiliar settling in her chest.
*** Meanwhile, Ryan faced mounting challenges of his own.
At Brendas apartment, she droned on about baby names and nursery plans, her words a sharp contrast to his own turmoil.
We need to focus on this baby, Ryan, Brenda insisted, her hand resting possessively on her stomach.
Im trying, Ryan said through clenched teeth, his thoughts drifting to Debby and Damien.
Later, Ryan met Amelia at her house, hoping to discuss the twins schedule.
I want to be here for them, he said, his voice firm.
I want to help.
Amelias expression hardened.
Youre stretched too thin, Ryan.
Brenda is still out there, and now shes using that baby to tie you to her.
She stepped closer, her voice lowering.
I wont let you bring that chaos into their lives.
Ryan flinched at her words but didnt back down.
Im not choosing her, Amelia.
Im choosing them.
You cant have both, she shot back before turning away, closing the door on any further conversation.
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