Chapter 1970 In his haze, Edwin barely registered the movement.
Mark gently placed the pill against Edwin's lips and observed as he swallowed it.
Water followed, guiding the medicine on its vital mission.
But as Edwin settled back, the harsh truth remained; medicine wasn't a magic wand. Fever ebbed and surged, playing cruel games with the little boy.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtIn his worst moments, Edwin sought solace in Mark's steadfast presence, his small hand finding his, calling him “great uncle” in his delirium. It tore at Mark, each hot, restless shift. Compelled by worry, he fetched a warm towel, dabbing away at the heat that seemed to radiate from Edwin's every pore.
Time crawled; thirty minutes saw the fever relent, if only just.
But it clung stubbornly above 38 degrees.
The night stretched on.
Sleep was a stranger to Mark. Instead, he renewed his vigil every thirty minutes, the damp towel his constant companion. His own body protested, weariness seeping into his bones, but he paid it no mind.
The servant, witnessing his silent struggle, offered softly, “Let me take over, Mr. Evans. You need to rest.” Mark shook his head, declining the offer.
He was resolute, determined to nurse Edwin himself.
By some miracle, Edwin's fever dwindled.
Mark was spent. He didn't even summon the energy for a shower, drifting to sleep precariously at the bed’s edge.
Dawn peeked in.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmThe rain had bid its farewell, and the city seemed renewed in its wake.
In the hush of the children’s room, the father and son's breathing melded in harmony.
Stirring to consciousness, Edwin studied the figure beside him.
Mark's rhythmic breathing signaled slumber.
Close as they were, Edwin could discern the shadow of new growth on his father’s face.
Mark lay still, a testament to his exhaustion.
A realization dawned on Edwin. Had his father kept vigil all night? His lips pressed together in contemplation. Though lingering resentment resided, for now, he cast it aside, his heart softening towards Mark.
Edwin's fingers brushed against Mark's hand.