Requiem of a Broken Heart

Chapter 911:

Brian, who had been waiting in the car, didn’t move until Rachel spoke again. “Dora’s just getting better, and since she wants you so much, why don’t you come up and keep her company?”

“Okay,” Brian said softly, his voice tinged with gratitude.

They walked upstairs, the ground slick from the light drizzle, the sound of rain tapping against the window adding to the quiet intimacy of the moment. Once inside, Rachel gave Dora a warm bath, and afterwards, Brian took charge of storytelling, gently lulling her to sleep.

Maybe it was the comfort of having her father close by, or the extra rest she’d gotten at the hospital, but tonight, Dora seemed more lively than usual. She clung to Brian, asking for one story after another, not wanting the moment to end.

Until late into the night, Dora finally surrendered to sleep, nestled in her father’s arms. Brian stayed by her side for another half hour, waiting until he was sure Dora was sound asleep before gently withdrawing his arm, careful not to disturb her. Meanwhile, Rachel had finished her shower and was in the living room. When she saw Brian emerge, she approached him, her voice quiet.

“Is she asleep?”

been exhausted from the hospital. You need rest.” He slipped on his coat, preparing to leave. “I’m heading out now, but

She stood there for a moment, listening to the rhythmic patter

“Wait!”

halted, his body stiffening at her

getting late, and the rain’s only getting worse. It’s not safe to drive in these conditions. If you don’t mind, you can stay

offer before he nodded eagerly. His voice, usually so composed, trembled

a familiar place allowed him to let go, and

𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 @