Chapter 252: Their Bonds

LUMINA

I watched Riley fuss over Lake like a mother hen protecting her only chick, adjusting his pillows for the third time in as many minutes while the medical staff tried unsuccessfully to complete their assessment.

The two boys were so focused on each other that they might as well have been alone in the room, their connection so intense it was almost tangible.

"Lake, we need to check your reflexes," Dr. Sloane said with strained patience, holding up a small hammer while Riley completely ignored her to hold a cup of water to Lake's lips.

"Riley, the doctors need to examine him," I tried gently,...