Chapter 2: The Breaking Point
Dr. Vale called it “regression risk.”
He warned Rowan that emotional dependency without structured reinforcement would undo any progress. He spoke in clean, clinical terms, backed by research, metrics, outcomes.
But Rowan couldn’t unhear that word.
Stay.
That night, Rowan stood outside Elodie’s room, watching through the half-open door.
Sadie sat on the floor, not speaking, just gently turning the old music box in her hands. The faint melody filled the room.
Elodie sat beside her.
Not withdrawn. Not rigid.
Present.
Rowan stepped away before they noticed him.
The next morning, he canceled Dr. Vale’s program.
May you like
Not all of it.
Just enough to make a decision.
