“I know you’re awake…” he added, leaning over to help her sit up.

Her eyes snapped open, annoyance flaring as she glared at him. “Eric! Why do you have to be so relentless? Can’t you give me some peace?”

“Not anymore.” Bitterness tinged his voice as he gathered her into his arms. “I’m not going to leave you on your own again. Never.”

A wave of emotion burned behind her eyes. She said nothing.

A sharp knock rattled the door.

Both turned in unison.

Outside, Joy’s small voice called out, “Mommy, are you in there? Are you awake yet?”

Their eyes met, sharing a silent understanding. Hadley spoke urgently. “Go—don’t let Joy come inside!”

“Got it.”

Eric moved quickly.

He released her, crossed to the door, and greeted their daughter. “Morning, Joy.”

“Hi, Daddy!” Joy stretched as high as she could, hoping to catch a glimpse of her mother. “Is Mommy there? I want to see her!”

“Not now, sweetheart.” Original content can be found at FιndNovel.net

With a sweep of his arms, Eric lifted Joy, gently keeping her from entering the room.

Joy’s big eyes shimmered with disappointment. “Why can’t I? I miss Mommy. I want to see her.”

“Mommy isn’t feeling well today.” Patiently, Eric crouched beside her and explained the situation.

With Joy’s recent surgery, even a mild cold was risky.

“Remember what Mommy said? You have to stay strong and healthy, right?”

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“Yes!” Joy gave a quick nod, recalling exactly what her mother had told her.

“That’s my girl.” Eric pressed a gentle kiss to her messy hair. “So, let’s wait until Mommy feels better. Then you can spend all the time you want with her. Does that sound good?”

Joy’s lips puckered in a small pout. “Alright… Is Mommy very sick?”

Eric shook his head, reassuring her. “She’s just got a little cold. Once she rests and takes her medicine, she’ll be fine.”

Hope sparkled in Joy’s voice as she called out, “Mommy?”

Hadley answered from inside the room, keeping her distance. “I’m right here, Joy. Don’t worry, sweetheart. I’ve had my medicine and I’ll get better soon.”

“I’ll wait until you’re better, Mommy.”

“Thank you, Joy. I know you will.”

Spotting Melba nearby, Eric handed Joy over with a loving pat. “Go on, wash up with Melba, okay?”

“Okay, Daddy.”

Once Joy was settled, Eric returned quietly to the bedroom.

He took his place on the edge of the bed, touched the plate on the tray, and spoke softly. “The food’s just right now, not too hot. Do you want some help sitting up?”

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