Chapter 25: Boys’ day out
Zara’s face ashen as she heard Zane’s voice change from excitement to disappointment. "Mommy is really sorry, baby," she said softly, trying to soothe his fragile emotions. "You remember my leg was already hurt, right? Last night, I twisted it again accidentally, and it got worse. The doctor said I have to stay in bed for a while."
There was a small pause. Then Zane asked in a low, concerned voice, "Is it hurting a lot?"
Zara’s throat tightened. "Not much. It’ll get better if I rest properly." Her voice dropped to a whisper.
"Then you should rest," Zane said firmly. "Don’t go anywhere. We can go next time."
Zara’s eyes shimmered. That calm, understanding voice coming from someone so young tugged fiercely at her heart. His maturity often startled her. The guilt twisted her chest.
Still, she tried to lift his spirits. "Don’t cancel your trip, sweetheart. Go with Daddy. Enjoy your day."
Zane said with a hint of resignation, "But I want to go with both of you."
Before Zara could respond, another voice interrupted the call. "If your mommy isn’t coming, that’s fine." Nathaniel stepped into the room with a taut expression. His tone was cold, almost accusing. "I’m taking you there. We’ll have fun."
He snatched the phone from Zane and ended the call abruptly.
Back in the hospital room, Zara stared at her phone in disbelief.
"What?" she muttered in confusion. Then her expression hardened. "He cut the call?" A storm rose in her eyes. "Nathaniel. That heartless man. I had so much to say to Zane..."