Mom has been doing better but has started a new treatment plan that Dr. Köhler created just for her. Her immune system wasn't in a place where she could leave the facility. So, this is the first time she gets to hold Charlotte, and my heart is both happy and aching all at once.
Theo leans in, watching Emily hold Mom steady while Mom holds the baby, and for a second, his expression changes.
Softens.
Something almost desperate flickers there, like he wants something he doesn’t know how to ask for.
Mom tires quickly, Julian stands, and Emily takes his place. Telling mom, it's her turn with Charlie, so mom doesn't have to say she can't hold her longer.
Theo's eyes never leave Emily, and not for the first time, I wonder what is going on with them.
He nudges Emily lightly. “You look good holding a mini-North.”
She doesn't react.
"You know we have the physical proof that we would make beautiful babies, right there in your arms."
Emily turns her head slowly, eyes like knives. “Try that sentence again, and I’ll throw you off the balcony.”
Theo’s grin is crooked. “Worth it.”
Emily’s face doesn’t change. “It wasn’t.”
Theo’s smile falters for half a beat, so quick you’d miss it if you didn’t know him.
But I see it.
And so does Julian, because his gaze flicks to Theo with a subtle warning that saysdon’t push her.
Theo backs off, hands lifting in surrender. “Okay, okay. I’mjusta supportive friend.”
Elliot mutters, “You’re a menace.”
Theo points at him. “And you love me.”
I step closer to Julian without thinking, my hand finding his forearm. He looks down at me, and something quiet passes between us.
Trust rebuilt isn’t fireworks.
It’s this.
It’s my body choosing him without bracing for punishment.
It’s Julian letting me choose without demanding.
Mom coos softly at the baby, and Emily’s eyes are bright.
My sister looks… lighter.
She still carries so much. She always will.
But she’s not drowning today.
Julian’s mouth brushes my hair as he leans close. “She’s beautiful,” he murmurs.
I know he means our daughter.
But I also know, in the way his eyes flick toward Emily and my mom, that he means the whole picture.
