Ethan nodded slowly, though his confusion lingered. He wasn't ready to accept simple answers, but for now, the reassurance seemed enough. Rachel exhaled shakily, silently grateful for Arnold's presence in the moment.
But the reprieve was short-lived.
---
Andrew paced in his office, the soft glow of his desk lamp casting shadows on the walls. He downed the last of his whiskey, the burn doing little to calm his frayed nerves. His thoughts churned like a storm, every memory of his life with Rachel and Ethan colliding with Arnold's sudden return.
He pulled out his phone, scrolling through the photos of Ethan he had taken over the years—birthday parties, first days of school, quiet moments at home. Every image was a testament to the bond they shared, the bond now under threat.
Andrew clenched his fist. "I won't lose him. Not without a fight."
