Later that evening, Katie regained consciousness. The first face she saw was Lilian's. Her lips trembled as she whispered, "Lilian..."
The room fell silent. All eyes turned to her.
Lilian hurried to her side, clutching Katie's hand tightly.
"I'm here," she said softly, her eyes glistening with tears.
"Katie, dear, thank goodness you're awake," Claire said, her voice breaking as she gently caressed Katie's chin.
Aiden stood by, unable to say a word. His heart ached for the woman he had wronged so deeply.
"Mother," Katie acknowledged weakly, her gaze briefly meeting Claire's. Then her hand moved instinctively to her stomach. The sutures told her everything she needed to know. Tears streamed down her face.
Lilian wiped them away tenderly.
"Please don't cry, Katie. You'll have another baby someday," she whispered, her voice full of hope.
"Everything will be fine, dear," Claire added, trying to console her.
