fiction

Chapter 13 - The Unspoken Bond

"Mr. Gallow," Linda whispered, quickly standing up from her chair, her hands smoothing out her dress. "I... we didn't expect you."

Dominic offered a slight nod, stepping further into the room. His gaze shifted from Linda to the young boy. "How is he holding up, Linda?"

"He's getting stronger every day, sir," Linda said, her voice laced with deep, trembling gratitude. "The doctors say if his white blood cell count holds steady through the weekend, he might be able to sit outside in the garden by next week."

Dominic walked over to the edge of the bed, looking down at the puzzle. He reached out a large, calloused hand and picked up a stray puzzle piece, fitting it effortlessly into the empty slot.

Leo looked up at him, a shy, innocent smile breaking across his pale face. "You're good at puzzles, mister."

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A rare, genuine smile touched the corner of Dominic’s lips—a sight that very few living souls had ever witnessed. "I'm good at finding missing pieces, kid," Dominic murmured softly, his dark eyes lingering on the boy. "Make sure you take care of your mother. She's the strongest person I know."

Before Linda could find the words to thank him again, Dominic gave a crisp nod, turned on his heel, and walked out into the corridor, leaving an aura of quiet strength in his wake.

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