Chapter 231 - An Unexpected Morning Visitor
I stared down at the hospital tray, the remains of a surprisingly delicious dinner scattered across it. Dylan had ordered all my favorites—a gesture I refused to read too deeply into. It was just a thank you for being here for Eleanor, nothing more.
"We should get going," I said, standing up and smoothing my skirt. "It's getting late, and Cora needs her rest."
"But Mommy, I'm not tired!" Cora protested, chocolate ice cream smeared at the corner of her mouth. I grabbed a napkin and gently wiped it away.
"It's a school night, sweetie," I reminded her.
Cora's face fell. "I want to stay with you."
"I'll see you soon, I promise," I said, my heart aching. These brief moments with my daughter never felt like enough.
"Where are you staying, Mommy?" Cora asked, her small hand clutching mine.
"At Grandma Clara's house," I replied.
Cora's eyes lit up. "Can I come too? Please? I want to stay with you and Grandma!"