CHAPTER 4: WHAT WAS ALMOST LOST
The doctor finally walked out.
Caleb stood instantly.
“Is she okay?”
The doctor paused.
“She’s stable.”
Relief hit like a wave—but it didn’t last long.
“And the baby?”
Another pause.
“…The baby survived.”
Caleb broke.
He covered his face, shaking with silent sobs.
“Can I see her?”
“Just for a moment.”
Amelia lay still in the hospital bed, pale but alive.
Caleb sat beside her, gently brushing her hair back.
“You saved me,” he whispered. “You saved all of us… and I let you face that alone.”
Her fingers moved slightly.
Then her eyes opened.
Weak.
But aware.
“Caleb…”
“I’m here.”
Tears filled her eyes.
“I didn’t want your family to hate me…”
He leaned closer.
“They don’t matter. You do.”
May you like
She shook her head faintly.
“Family always matters… even when it hurts.”
