The Father's Question

VANESSA

My heart hammered against my ribcage as Roman stared at me with those piercing golden-brown eyes. Eyes that matched Fabian's perfectly. Eyes that now held the knowledge I'd kept hidden for six long years.

I couldn't breathe. Couldn't think. The hospital corridor seemed to narrow around us, the fluorescent lights suddenly too harsh.

"Roman, I—" The words died in my throat.

Before I could gather my thoughts, Dr. Gable appeared, her face lined with exhaustion but holding cautious optimism.

"Ms. West? I have an update on Fabian's condition."

Roman's gaze never left my face, even as the doctor spoke. His jaw was clenched so tightly I could see the muscle twitching beneath his skin. The color had drained from his face, making him look almost ghostly under the hospital lights.

"The transfusion is working remarkably well," Dr. Gable continued, glancing between us. "His body is accepting the blood perfectly, which isn't surprising given the donor compatibility."