His Regret, My Unbought Freedom

ie

. My head throbbed, a dull ache behind my eyes. I was back. Again. I shifted, a groan e

ning his jaw. His eyes, usually sharp and penetrating, were bloodshot

worry was quickly tinged with accusation. "Why didn't you take your medication

she rest for the baby." His words were a subtle jab, a reminder of who truly mattered, who was truly fra

said, my voice barely a whisper. My th

ening, confirming every doubt, every f

nvey fragility. She clutched her stomach dramatically, her eyes wide with feigned concern. "Oh, Allie, you're awake!

made my stomach churn. "I can't," I rasped, my voice barely audible. "I ha

r stomach even tighter. "Oh, the baby!" she cried, sinking into t

you shouldn't have strained yourself. Just rest. Allie's just being difficult." He shot m

protested, my voice rising in frustration. My body felt weak, but a spark of anger ign

eed to eat." He took the bowl from Harper, his hand

t this is?" The words tumbled out, raw and painful. I remembered the fire, the agoni

us light. He spooned the broth, thick and oily, into my mouth. I gagged, my stomach rebelling instantly. A wave of

whose theatrical sobs were escalating. "There, there, my love," he soothed, strokin

. My lungs burned, struggling to draw air. "My me

but Harper let out a piercing shriek. "Oh, August! My water... I think my water just b

g concern for me. "Harper! What? Call the doctor! Get a stretcher!" He swept her

burned, a searing fire spreading through my lungs. My vision tunnel

ged to pull out the familiar blue inhaler. I brought it to my lips, pressing the button. Nothing. It was empty. I reached for the small pil

cognized from August's nightstand, stronger than anything I'd ever taken. My al

the way. Harper. August. The realization hit me with the force of a physical blow. They had been

or. My world spun, blackness encroaching rapidly. My body convulsed, my sens

ntic shout from the doorway. "Sh