The doctor led Andrew to his ward.
I followed a nurse to complete the paperwork.
When I returned, Andrewâs wounds were bandaged.
Upon seeing me, Andrew rose from bed and apologized like a child whoâd misbehaved.
âEarlier in the car⦠Iâm so sorry.
Did I frighten you?â
I shook my head, not wanting him to dwell on self-blame.
âNo, I understand you were drugged.
â
Relief washed over Andrewâs face.
He turned to the window, noticing the approaching darkness.
âItâs getting late.
Should I have the driver take you back to the manor?â
Concern filled me as I looked at Andrew.
His bandaged hands and face were a sorry sight.
âWhat about you? Do you need company?â
Andrew smiled reassuringly.
âThe bodyguards will be here.
Besides, the doctor said the burns arenât extensive, so it shouldnât be too risky.
Go home and rest.
Donât worry about me.
â
I hesitated slightly.
It had been a whole day since Iâd seen Abby.
I missed my child dearly.
Now that Andrew wasnât in immediate danger, with bodyguards and nurses around, there wasnât a strong reason for me to stay.
Feeling a sense of relief, I decided to leave.
However, I couldnât depart without expressing my concern.
âGet some rest.
Iâll visit tomorrow.
â
âSounds good,â Andrew replied with a smile.
A thought struck me.
âWhat do you need for breakfast? I can bring something tomorrow.
â
Andrewâs voice held a hint of shyness.
âWould you mind cooking for me? Iâd love something you made.
â
Andrewâs request surprised me a bit.
My cooking wasnât exceptional.
But considering he was a patient, I agreed.
Reaching the manor, I went to see Abby.
Nora cradled her, feeding her as I entered.
She smiled as she saw me.
âWhy are you back so late?â she
whispered nervously.
Assuming Nora worried about my safety on the night roads, I explained, âJust an accident at the party.
No need to worry.
Andrewâs driver brought me home.
â
Noraâs expression changed, but she remained silent.
Instead, she cooed to Abby, âLook, Mommyâs here.
Happy to see her?â
As if by some maternal telepathy, Abby offered a sweet smile.
Seeing Abbyâs smile melted my heart.
I quickly took her from Nora.
Her bright smile filled me with warmth.
Nora and I played with Abby, coaxing her to sleep.
I stayed until she drifted off.
Debraâs POV:
Leaving Abby sleeping, I tiptoed out.
To my surprise, Nora followed.
âIs everything alright? Is Abbyâ¦â