Sally's POV
Warren drifts off faster than usual tonight, probably worn out from Karl's patient bedtime ritual. The warm bath, fresh pajamas, and careful arrangement of his favorite stuffed animals worked like magic. Watching Karl read him that new story with different voices for each character made my chest tight with emotions I wasn't ready to name.
I can't ignore how naturally Karl has slipped into the father role. Every day he proves what an incredible dad he would have been from the start. The thought cuts deep because it shows me exactly what we lost during those missing years. All that love and laughter we'll never get back.
I stay by Warren's bedside longer than necessary, mesmerized by the peaceful rhythm of his breathing. His small face looks so serene in sleep. I wonder if he dreams about having a real family now, complete and whole.
But I'm also avoiding what's waiting for me downstairs. Once I leave this room, everything changes.
