Chapter 42

When I took Lily's hand again, her whole face lit up like the sun had come out just for her. She looked up at me, wide-eyed. “You’re not going away again?” My heart ached at how fragile her voice sounded. I bent down so we were eye-level and gave her fingers a firm, reassuring squeeze. “I’m not going anywhere, baby,” I said softly. “Not until you’re strong enough to push me out the door yourself.” She shook her head firmly, little brows furrowed. “I’d never do that.” “I would never push you out,” she said, her lip wobbling. “Even if I got super big and strong. I’d keep you forever.” My heart cracked wide open. I pulled her into my arms, holding her tightly against my chest. “Oh, Lily,” I whispered into her hair and she hugged me tighter. Her smile grew, but I could still see that flicker of fear hiding behind her eyes, like she didn’t completely believe me yet. We got into the car. Lily buckled herself in, unusually quiet for a moment. Then she turned to me, tilting her head like she w