#Chapter 20: Owen's missing

Lauren I was back on my feet soon after being discharged, the hospital buzzing as always with hurried footsteps and beeping machines. But today, the air felt heavier, thick with tension I couldn’t shake. Every glance, every whisper seemed aimed at me, and the weight of their judgment pressed hard. It had been weeks since I’d taken over Owen’s care, and Dr. Bramble’s animosity had only grown. He’d never been warm, but now he stood before me, sneer in place, accusing me of the unthinkable—neglecting my duties and manipulating Owen’s feelings. “You’ve been nothing but a distraction,” he spat, his voice sharp with disdain. “Taking advantage of a sick boy’s confusion—his mother, his mental state—” Anger simmered, but I kept my voice calm. “You’re wrong,” I said evenly. “Owen’s condition has improved under my care. He’s not the withdrawn child he was. He’s responding to treatment, and you can’t deny that.” Dr. Bramble’s face reddened, his fury barely contained. “And as for your