51. I remember

Ivy

I tighten my grip on Kaelan's hand, hoping to intensify our connection. "Alice was there before Esther was hurt?" I ask him to repeat.

Kaelan nods, his expression determined. "Yes, you were alive and laughing with me. Telling me a story, then Mom, I mean Alice, walked in."

"Kaelan, I don't know what you're remembering, but I assure you, I would never wish harm upon Esther. I was there to protect both of you," Alice protests.

Kaelan's words send a shiver down my spine. I exchange a glance with Alice.

Alice breaks the silence, her voice filled with a mix of concern and confusion. "Kaelan, I understand that your memories might be vivid, but there seems to be a mistake here. I would never do anything to harm Esther, your birth mother."

Kaelan's expression wavers, his gaze shifting between Alice and me. "I... I don't know what to believe. The memories feel real. I saw you coming in. You were smiling."

"Then what happened?" I ask and keep my eyes on Alice.

"She charged at her!" Kaelan g