Chapter 43. Nightmare

“Which is more important—your ego or their happiness?”

These words had been echoing in Edmund’s mind for hours. Even with his eyes closed and a pillow pressed over his ears, Hunter’s voice still lingered.

He stared at the dark ceiling.

“Wouldn’t they be happier if they came home with me?” he muttered.

Earlier, he had felt certain about a future with Alice and Sky. Coming home to them. Playing together in the evenings. Weekends filled with shared time and laughter. A life that finally felt complete.

But now doubt had taken root.

“Am I selfish for wanting Alice back?” he thought. “Am I selfish for taking them away from here?”

“What if Sky can’t adapt to city life? What if she prefers the forest? Should I buy a house somewhere like this?”