Olivia had shifted her focus entirely to Ethan's recovery, determined to help him regain his strength and walk again. Each night, though, the peace was disrupted by Olivia's anguished cries. The same words echoed through her dreams—"Please, Ethan, don't hurt Eva." The torment in her voice cut deep into Ethan's soul, amplifying his anger toward Patrick and Martha for the pain they'd inflicted on his family.
Every night, Ethan would wheel himself quietly to Olivia's room, holding her hand until she calmed down and fell back asleep, her breathing steady as soon as she recognized his comforting presence. One particular morning, Olivia stirred awake to find Ethan slumped in his wheelchair beside her bed, his hand still gently grasping hers, fast asleep. She looked at him with a mix of tenderness and sadness, understanding the silent battle he was fighting every night just to keep her at peace.
Carefully, she leaned in and planted a soft kiss on his forehead. Ethan's eyes fluttered open, a smile spreading across his face, though his eyes were wet with tears.
"I was so afraid I'd never feel that kiss again," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.
Olivia nodded, her eyes mirroring the depth of his sentiment. "I feel the same, Ethan. I'm not letting you go again."
Their intimate moment was interrupted by a tiny voice at the door. Eva, rubbing her eyes sleepily, wandered in. Ethan's heart swelled as she approached. Without hesitation, he scooped Eva into his lap, and to Olivia's surprise, he pulled her into his other lap, enveloping them both in a warm, tight embrace.
Eva giggled, wrapping her small arms around both her parents, her excitement bubbling over. "Daddy, I'll help you walk again! I promise!" she said, her voice filled with joy and determination.
Ethan chuckled, but his eyes shone with gratitude. "With you two by my side, I know I'll walk again." He kissed Olivia's cheek and then Eva's, holding them close as if they were his entire world.
Olivia, more determined than ever, smiled through the emotion choking her. Together, they had a long road ahead, but as a family, they would face every challenge. Eva's boundless energy and optimism would be the light they needed, and Olivia's strength would guide them through the darkest days. Most importantly, they had each other—finally, after all the turmoil, they were whole again.