AVA’S POV

I always feel like I don’t deserve to be their Mother. I said it to give him hope.

But now I’m sitting here choking on my own words.

“They’re waiting for us,” I whispered — and I meant it.

I needed to believe it. I needed him to believe it.

But the moment Nicholas looked away, I couldn’t hold it anymore.

My heart cracked under the silence.

I stood, careful not to let go of the blanket, and I walked into the corridor like I was fine.

Like my legs weren’t shaking. ...