Chapter 52

The decision to return home weighed heavily on my mind as Vince and I packed our belongings, the room that had become a temporary refuge now echoing with the hollowness of our departure. Oliver, on the mend from his respiratory infection, played contentedly with his toys, unaware of the decisions being made around him.

Vince sighed as he zipped up the suitcase. “Laura, this whole trip has been a disaster. I just want to get Oliver home, where he’s safe and familiar with everything.”

I nodded, feeling the same urgency. “I agree, Vince. We need to prioritize Oliver’s well-being.”

As we loaded the car, Donovan approached us, concern etched on his face. “Leaving so soon? Is everything okay?”

I hesitated, unsure of how to convey our decision. “Oliver’s been through a lot, and we think it’s best to go back home, to a more familiar environment.”

Donovan nodded understandingly. “I get it. Family comes first. If there’s anything I can do to help, just let me kno