Chapter 19 So We're Friends Now?

Chloe Bennett gazed at Nolan Duvall, whose piercing eyes mirrored Rowan Blackwood's, and sighed involuntarily—snapping Nolan back to attention. "Aunt Chloe?" "Your mother will be fine, don't worry. I'll get some food. Stay here, alright? I'll watch over your mom tonight and take you home soon. Are you scared?" Chloe stroked Nolan's head tenderly, her heart breaking for him. Though precociously clever and often scheming, he was still just a child. Seeing his mother collapse had rattled him. But hospitals harbored germs, and with Marielle already ill, Chloe couldn't risk Nolan getting sick too. "I'm not scared. Please take care of Mommy, Aunt Chloe." Nolan bowed formally, surprising her. "What are you doing, silly? Your mom's my best friend—of course I'll care for her. Just be careful at home. Lock up when you get in and don't open for anyone, understand? Call if you need anything." Though concerned, Chloe was stretched thin—sending Nolan home was the only way to focus properly. But Nola