A Child's Gaze, A Mother's Heartache

Elara's POV

I clutched the shower curtain tighter, my heart pounding against my ribs. "Damien, I'm in the shower!"

His silhouette remained motionless for a moment before he spoke. "I brought you fresh towels." His voice was flat, devoid of emotion. "Didn't realize you were in here."

He placed them on the counter and left without another word, closing the door behind him. I released the breath I'd been holding and stepped out, wrapping a towel around myself. My hands trembled slightly.

After changing into my pajamas, I tiptoed back into Coco's room. She was fast asleep, her chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. I pressed my hand against her forehead—cooler now, thankfully. The medicine was working.

I slipped under the covers beside her, careful not to wake her. The twin bed wasn't meant for two people, but I didn't mind. I'd sleep on the floor if it meant being close to my daughter when she needed me.