Chapter 84

Valerie

I looked at my father and at Carmen. Deep thoughts drowned me.

"Send him in," I breathed out, the weight of the impending conversation settling heavily on my shoulders.

"Are you sure, Val?" Dad's voice was laced with concern, and I nodded weakly in response. "Do you want me to stay?"

I managed a smile, grateful for his concern but also wanting a moment of privacy with Aiden. "It's alright, dad. I can handle him," I assured him, squeezing his hand gently.

"Come on, Bryan. Let's get out of here. We need to cook something healthy to feed her and her baby," Carmen interjected, her voice filled with warmth and determination. I watched as she pulled my dad away, their easy banter bringing a small smile to my lips. There was definitely something going on between them, something beautiful and full of promise. And as they left the room, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a momentary respite before the storm that was about to come.

Closing my eyes, I leaned back against the headboa