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Arthur Vance sat by the bedside, taking his mother’s hand with a look of genuine concern. "Mom, I’m sorry I’m late. How are you feeling? Is the pain better?"

Victoria managed a thin, fragile smile. "I’m fine. Your brother Liam overreacted; he insisted on checking me in."

"You always say that," Arthur sighed, his voice full of a son's exasperation. "Since you’re here, stay put