Regina’s POVThe drive to the school that morning was unusually quiet. Mia sat in the backseat humming softly, while Ivan stared out the window, his small hands clutching the straps of his backpack.Lindsay drove while I scrolled through my phone, double-checking the directions to Saint Mary’s Private Hospital.After the chaos of the last few days, the routine felt almost surreal, dropping the kids at school like everything was normal.When we pulled up to the gates, Mia leaned forward between the seats. “Mommy, are you picking us up today?”I forced a smile. “Maybe. If I finish early.”“Promise?” she asked, her eyes hopeful.I hesitated. “Promise.”Ivan, already halfway out of the car, turned and shouted, “Bye, Mommy! Bye, Aunt Lindsay!” before running toward the entrance.Lindsay and I waved until they disappeared through the doors. Then the air in the car shifted, lighter for a moment, then heavier again.Saint Mary’s Private Hospital loomed on the horizon half an hour later, its w
Last Updated : 2025-10-06 Read more