The sun shone brightly that day, a rare moment of good weather. A sigh escaped Joelleâs lips. âIf only Ryland were here to enjoy this beautiful day with us.â
Adrian gently took her hand in his. âThe police are investigating. Weâll get answers soon.â
However, despite their efforts, the police had yet to find any significant leads regarding Wadeâs whereabouts. After days of relentless investigations, they had resorted to putting up wanted posters, indicating they were at a dead end in their search, even with the use of advanced tracking technology.
Joelle lowered her eyes, unwilling to spoil the day with her worries, but she couldnât help feeling anxious whenever happiness seemed within reach.
Every time happiness found its way to Joelle, thoughts of Ryland crept in, and her heart would once again be filled with worry and guilt.
âIâm scared that Ryland might be in real danger, Adrian.â
âIâm sure Wade wonât hurt him. Despite his intentions, heâll most likely take care of Ryland,â Adrian reassured her.
They had speculated that Wade had taken Ryland because they shared the same blood type, which was also Chrisâs. If Chris was still alive, having Ryland nearby to supply blood transfusions would be beneficial for Wade. Or, if Chris had already passed, having Ryland with him could be Wadeâs way of trying to find solace in his grief.
In any case, Wade would likely take good care of Ryland, as he had no real reason to harm him.
âI hope so,â Joelle said, trying to console herself with the possibility.
The wind picked up, rustling the fallen leaves and sending a faint swirl of dust against their faces. âWe better head back,â Adrian said as he stood up and adjusted her coat. âDonât want you catching a cold.â
âOkay.â
Joelle glanced towards Aurora. Noticing the wind picking up, Leah carried Aurora and walked towards them. On their way back to the ward, they ran into the Finch family at the elevator.
Despite trying to keep a neutral expression, Fred couldnât hide the displeasure in his eyes when he saw the group. He didnât want the relationship between the two families to end this way, but he had to maintain civility to preserve family honor.
To break the awkward silence, Gracie greeted the group. âJoelle, Iâm sorry we didnât come visit you the day you woke up.â
Joelle knew Adrian had called everyone to share the good news that day, except for the Finch family, and she was glad he had.
Whenever she saw them, she was reminded of the fire and the agony that consumed her when she saw Rylandâs charred body.
At just two years old and less than a meter tall, he had been so innocent and small, yet there he was, fighting for his life amidst the flames.
That image would probably haunt Joelle for the rest of her life.
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