His Knees, His Pleas, But Our Son's in Peace

Chapter 65

Confused, I turned off the TV, feeling a strange mixture of disappointment and concern. Carlos was always dedicated to his work, so why hadn't he attended the

banquet? I tried to shake the feeling that something was off, but the uncertainty

lingered.

A few days later, I decided to take Cyrus out for some fresh air. The park we frequented was a good escape from the thoughts swirling in my head. We packed a small picnic and headed out, joined by a few neighboring families who often came along. The children, including Cyrus, ran ahead excitedly while the adults found a spot to settle.

As we spread out our blankets and began to relax, one of the women next to me started chatting. Her voice was casual as she shared bits of gossip, but then she leaned in slightly. "You know, I think I saw Sienna at the infants' hospital the other day."

I froze, my mind racing at the mention of her name. Sienna? That couldn't be right. "Sienna?" I repeated, trying to keep my voice steady. "That's not possible. She's in prison. She was sentenced to ten years."

The woman shrugged. "I thought so too, but it really looked like her. Could be someone else, though."

I forced a smile, dismissing the idea as ridiculous. Sienna couldn't be out. Nathan didn't take the bail money on the set date, and she was serving her sentence. There was no way she could have been at the hospital. Still, the mention of her name sent an uneasy chill down my spine.

the other children. His energy and quickness set him apart, even among kids who were older than him. He was sharper, faster, more physically coordinated, and I

Chapter 65

seen it time and again. Cyrus was special, in ways that even I

did

leave the park. The unease I felt after the mention of

and I walked back toward home, the golden light of the setting sun casting long shadows across the path, I saw a figure up

gift in his hands, his eyes lighting up when he saw us approach. "Doris, Cyrus," he called out with a wide

moved closer to me, his nose wrinkling as he whispered, "T don't like the way he smells." His words were enough

give him anything," I said, trying to

closer, his smile faltering. "It's just a gift.

get close to you, and neither do I," I said firmly, hoping Nathan would

stepped closer still, reaching out toward Cyrus. Without warning, he grabbed my wrist, not harshly, but firmly enough to make

voice softening with what seemed like sincerity.

his grip on my wrist