Chapter 212

The plane's engines roared as Vivian Laurent leaned against the window, eyes closed in rest.

Meanwhile, Ethan Roscente's private car sped down the highway toward the hospital.

In the emergency ward corridor, Sophia Evans stood trembling behind sunglasses and a mask.

She spotted Ethan rounding the corner and immediately removed her shades, revealing swollen red eyes.

"Ethan!" She rushed forward with a sob. "Theo's fever spiked to 104°F. The doctors say he needs hospitalization."

Ethan sidestepped her attempted embrace with a frown. "When did this start?"

"Last night," Sophia sniffled. "He kept crying for you." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "When I said you were busy, he cried harder."

Nearby, a man in a baseball cap discreetly raised his phone, capturing Sophia leaning against Ethan's shoulder.

"He's too young to understand adult matters." Sophia wiped her tears. "I know you're upset with me, but for Theo's sake—"

Ethan stepped back. "I'll take responsibility for Theo."

A shadow flickered in Sophia's eyes. She'd anticipated this—he'd claim the child but reject her.

"Could you stay a few days?" she asked meekly. "The doctor said he needs IV fluids for three days. Seeing you would speed his recovery."

After a pause, Ethan nodded.

Sophia lowered her head to hide her smirk. The cold bath she'd forced Theo into was worth this fever.

The examination room door opened. A nurse wheeled out a pale Theo, his cheeks flushed with fever, an IV already in his small hand.

Ethan grasped the child's burning fingers. This boy, bearing his late brother's likeness, was his sole remaining tie.

"Uncle Ethan..."

The weak voice tightened Ethan's chest. Theo's damp eyes brightened upon seeing him.

"Don't move." Ethan gently restrained the struggling child.

Theo obediently lay still. "Will you stay? I'll be good with the needles..."

From the shadows, Sophia watched with satisfaction. She'd coached her son well—ice cream awaited if he performed. If not...

Tear droplets clung to Theo's lashes as he forced a smile. "I missed you, Uncle Ethan. Please don't go."