Before I could decide what to do, Orion turned to me, his small face darkening as sharp words spilled from his lips.
"My dad and mom are on a date. Why are you calling to disturb them?" His voice carried an unexpected sting, his eyes cold and unyielding. "You're not my mom. Why do you care whether I can eat this or not? Dad told you to take me out to play, so whatever I want to eat or do, just do it. Don't interfere."
A sudden tightness gripped my chest, pressing down like an invisible weight. I opened my mouth, but no words came.
On the way back, Orion clutched his stomach and let out a sharp cry. His face turned deathly pale.
Eleanor's eyes widened in horror before she broke into sobs. Charles, his usual composure shattered, slammed his foot on the gas and sped toward the hospital.
After a series of tests, the doctor confirmed acute gastroenteritis, severe enough to warrant IV fluids and hospitalization.
Orion lay weakly on the hospital bed, his small frame trembling as he whimpered for his mother. When his gaze met mine, fear flickered in his eyes.