Ariel was preparing to leave for the hospital, her bag packed with snacks and books to pass the time during her visit with Chase. As she reached for the door handle, Star’s tiny voice stopped her in her tracks.
“Mommy, where are you going?”
Ariel turned to face his curious son, a smile on her face.
“I’m going to visit Chase in the hospital, sweetie.”
Star’s eyes widened, her face lighting up with excitement.
“Is Daddy there? Can I see him?”
Ariel’s heart skipped a beat as she hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal.
“Well, sweetie, Daddy is…not feeling well right now. That’s why I’m going to visit him alone.”
Star’s face scrunched up in confusion.
“But why can’t I see him? I want to see Daddy!”
Ariel knelt down, her hands on Star’s shoulders.
“I know, baby. But sometimes, wh
