Shadows Of A Forgotten Spring

Chapter 119

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He lifted little Emily out of the car into his arms, and she threw her tiny arms around his neck, giggling softly. It was one of those giggles that could lighten up even the gloomiest of days, and for one second or two, Brandon felt his heart lightened. Ethan who had been looking out of the window in the living room and let out a delighted squeak at the sight of Brandon. The little boy ran out of the house, arms wide open, a brilliant smile on his face.

"Uncle Brandon!" Ethan shouted in pure delight as he launched himself into Brandon's waiting arms.

Brandon hugged Ethan tightly, lifting him off the ground. "Wow you've grown so much since I last saw you!" he exclaimed, laughing as Ethan beamed.

The day had been long spent in the hospital with Emily, but now they were finally home, and finally back together. For Ethan, it was the countdown he'd been waiting for. More than being a family friend, Brandon was like a dad to the kids and always brought an aura of warmth and laughter whenever he came over.

Later that evening, under the bright dinner lamp, sat Brandon, Emma, Ethan, Emily, and Mrs. Walker, feasting. The children talked excitedly about their day as they burst into laughter as Brandon teased Ethan playfully about how he had come to love broccoli. Even amidst the smiles and laughter, Emma couldn't help but notice something off. Brandon's eyes, usually so bright and full of life, seemed clouded with a quiet sadness. He tried to put on a good face; he joked with the kids and told stories, but Emma could see through him. She knew him too well. Yet she said nothing.

Emma decided to hold her tongue until later. After all, Brandon had been a real rock for her and the kids, and she didn't want to push him now while the kids were still up.

The night wore on, and the children finally fell asleep; the house fell into a calm silence. Emma found Brandon sitting in the living room, staring out the window into the dark night. "What's bothering you?" she asked softly, taking a seat beside him.

Brandon shook his head, a nervous smile dancing on his lips. "Nothing's bothering me. I just. missed you and the kids," he said, trying to sound steady, though his eyes told another story.

Emma watched him closely, her heart aching at the vulnerability he was trying so hard to mask. "Brandon," she said softly. "you really don't have to pretend with me. If something's wrong. I'm here to listen."

head again. "Really, Emma. I'm fine," he insisted, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. Emma dropped the matter, letting him be. They talked for some time about the old times, laughing softly, but the shadows in

goodnight

AAAAA

sleep. The room was dark save for the dim light of her phone, which she checked every few minutes. Her

another

to her, Alexander slept soundly, his breathing light and even. She looked at him, nibbling on her lip as anxiety clawed its way out. She hadn't yet determined how to approach

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Chapter 119

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crawled toward midnight and her eyelids grew heavy. She had just started to doze off to sleep when her

as she grabbed it with trembling fingers; another

breath suddenly caught

moan. Annie's hands shook as she paused the video, bile rising in her

had clawed her way to the top, sacrificing too much to let

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into the humid city air, his chest tight with the weight of urgency. He didn't bother to stop for a breath, his destination clear

It was something that was infuriating and maddening, to