#Chapter 42: The Words of a Child

Lauren Abigail’s small frame framed by the harsh light of window, cradle in my arms with the heart monitors beep filling out ears. Her brown eyes, so much like mine yet holding a depth of understanding far beyond her years, something I’ve seen more in Own then my little sunshine. Her gaze was locked onto Alexander, like she was making sense of her racing thoughts. There was something different about her expression—a seriousness that made me uneasy. “Hey, sweetie,” I said, forcing a smile that didn’t reach my eyes. “Maybe you should head back with Daphne. This place isn’t exactly kid-friendly right now.” She shook her head, stepping closer. “I wanted to talk to you, mommy. It’s important.” The knot in my stomach tightened. Abigail wasn’t one for dramatics, but the tone of her voice told me whatever she had to say, she wasn’t tking it lightly. I nodded and gestured toward the small hair next to Alexander’s bed. She moved silently as she sat in the too-stiff chair, watching m