Silence fell over the ground, deep and eerie — as quiet as the dead of night. Derek slowly opened his eyes, wondering if he had already crossed over. But standing before him was Travis, wiping something off his body, wincing slightly as he did. Derek pushed himself up instantly.
"Papa, you're awake!" Henry screamed, running to him and hugging him tightly. Derek, still sore from the earlier impact, flinched slightly at the embrace.
"Careful, dear," Travis cautioned gently. "Your papa is still injured."
Henry stopped and looked down guiltily. "Sorry… I was just scared you left us. I've been worried."
Derek sighed, pulling the little boy close to his chest. Beside Travis stood Tilda, her eyes red and puffy from crying.
"Oh, baby, what happened?" Derek asked, still sitting on the ground.
Tilda turned away, sniffling. "Don't touch me, Papa. You broke your promise! You said you wouldn't put yourself in danger again, but look what happened. What if I lost you?"
