CATRIONA

Jayden was up instantly, crossing the room in seconds.

“What did he say?” he asked, voice already shifting lower, sharper.

But Abriel didn’t respond.

His body wavered.

And then he collapsed forward—straight into my arms.

“Baby!” I caught him against my chest, sitting back on the edge of the bed as I cradled him. His little body was trembling, and his skin felt clammy against mine.

“It’s okay, it’s okay, I’ve got you,” I whispered, trying to keep my voice from shaking. “I’m right here. Mummy’s right here.”

He curled into me like he was trying to hide from the world.

Then, in the softest, hoarse whisper, he said:...