Ian saw the fear in Serena's eyes. "Don't be afraid," he reassured her. "The new treatment protocol is showing a breakthrough. You're going to be okay."
Serena nodded, choosing to trust him.
Ian went to his mother's bedside. Gina was asleep, and on the arm resting outside the blanket, dark red spots were clearly visible, like venomous bites. He tucked the blanket around her and turned to Serena. "You go rest at the hotel across the street. I'll stay here tonight."
Serena was exhausted. Gavin was waiting outside to escort her.
Once she was gone, Ian called Dr. Smith. "Doctor, I'm moving my mother to the lab tomorrow. I want you to restart her stem cell injections to suppress the symptoms."
"Of course. We have a reserve of stem cells ready. Bring Mrs. Goodwin over whenever you're ready."
The next morning.
Eleanor was leading her daughter out the door when she saw a figure leaning against the wall in the hallway.
"Daddy!" Evelyn cried out in delight.
Ian looked like he hadn't slept. There were red veins in his eyes and a hint of stubble on his chin. His suit jacket was draped casually over his arm, his tie loosened. The fatigue of a sleepless night was starkly visible in the bright morning light.
He knelt to greet his daughter. "Daddy's here to take you to school."
Evelyn turned to Eleanor. "Mommy, can Daddy take me to school today?"
Eleanor nodded. As she was about to hand Ian Evelyn's backpack, he stopped her. "Gavin took my car to run some errands. Would you mind giving me a ride to the lab?"
Eleanor looked at his exhausted state. Even if he had his car, she wouldn't have trusted him to drive their daughter. She gave a faint nod in agreement.
A subtle look of relief crossed Ian's face. He took Evelyn's hand and led the way to the elevator.
On the way to the kindergarten, Evelyn chattered happily with Ian in the back seat while Eleanor focused on driving.


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