Katelyn’s POV

The day Lucas was discharged from the hospital should have brought me relief. But instead, it felt like another weight pressing on my chest. He clung to my hand, his little fingers wrapping around mine with all the strength he had. His eyes, wide and glassy, stared up at me, full of silent pleading.

“Mommy, can’t I stay with you?” he whispered, his voice trembling.

My heart ached. I wanted nothing more than to pull him back into the bed, hold him close, and never let him ...