Meryl's POV
"That shouldn't matter right now!" Father's voice thundered through the hospital room. "The real problem is that Andre violated yo-"
"Dad!" I shouted, interrupting his tirade. "Stop... There's a child present."
My words seemed to snap him back to reality. He turned gradually, as though noticing Gavin's presence for the first time.
His chest heaved as he exhaled deeply, tension slowly leaving his shoulders.
When he spoke again, his tone had gentled considerably.
"Come over here, little one."
Gavin glanced at me uncertainly, and I gave him an encouraging nod. He approached cautiously.
Father settled back against his pillows and carefully lifted Gavin onto his lap. "Tell me your name, son."
"Gavin."
"And how many years old are you, Gavin?"
"Six."
A genuine smile crossed Dad's features for the first time since regaining consciousness. Though weary, it held warmth. "I'm your grandfather. Do you understand what that means?"
