Love Unspoken

Caught in the throes of a life-and-death crisis, Valerie found herself trapped between the instinct for self-preservation and the desperate need to save her children.

A rare clarity washed over her, illuminating the harsh reality of her situation.

She could escape now, save herself, but her children would be left to perish. If she didn't make it out, they would all die, leaving no one to avenge them.

She could be ruthless, she could choose survival, but the thought of watching her children burn alive required a heart of steel and a strength she wasn't sure she possessed. Valerie drew in a deep breath, the thick smoke filling her lungs and triggering a violent cough.

her eyes as she rose to her feet and bolted for the exit."Mommy!!""Mommy, save Hannah... it hurts so much!"Valerie froze at the doorway, turning back as if pulled by invisible strings. Through the haze, she saw her children crying out in agony, their pleas tugging at her heartstrings. Her hand on the blistering door frame sizzled,

almost comically, noticed two keys lying on the ground by the door. Like a divine intervention, the keys made the choice for her, silencing her

Valerie bent down, snatched the keys, and plunged back into the inferno. Meanwhile, Wayne had already gone to handle the paperwork, transferring

craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the spectacle. Some took pictures with their

was now treating her to lunch.

a rarity since their wedding. His presence, his attention, felt like the grandest of gifts. That

into the car."Did you enjoy today?" Alexander asked, turning to her.Quinn could only nod, a gesture that under normal circumstances would indicate happiness, but she wasn't happy.