The Secret Heir Return To Wealth And Love

Cory gazed at him intently, a look of concern creasing his young face. Despite his father's efforts to spruce up, the signs of weariness were unmistakable-Wayne's frame seemed frailer, his lips almost colorless.

On the drive over, Cory had done his homework. This place was a renowned mental health clinic.

Hearing Wayne's voice, Cory slowly approached, his small hand lightly touching his father's before suddenly gripping his fingers tightly.

"He must have been through so much." Cory thought, as tears welled up and spilled over his cheeks.b2

Wayne quickly pulled his son into an embrace, patting his back gently. "I'm sorry, kiddo. Dad's been a mess, made y'all worry."

"Dad's the best!" Ivy cried, her voice muffled by sobs. "Mommy said Dad just got a little sick, everyone gets sick. You'll be better soon!"

Cory didn't say a word. He just leaned his forehead against Wayne's shoulder, feeling the bony contours beneath his shirt. "Don't they feed you enough here? Aren't you getting the nutrition you need?" His thoughts were a silent scream as tears continued to fall.This content © Nôv/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

"It's chilly out here, bro. Let's go inside," Baillie suggested, moving forward.

Wayne looked up at Baillie with grateful eyes. A nod was all it took between them; words were unnecessary.

Through the back door was a greenhouse, and as Wayne led his children inside, Ivy's eyes sparkled with curiosity at the wide-leafed plants under the glass domes, imagining a fantastical, lush world.

Penn had prepared a room that was homely yet dignified-with a hospital bed and a sitting area. The coffee table in the sitting area was laden with snacks the children adored.

One look was enough for Cory to know that this wasn't where his father usually stayed.

"Rosalynn sent some of your favorite fruits along with me," Baillie said, unloading a variety of carefully selected produce from his backpack that Wayne always enjoyed. The hospital's fruit just didn't cut it—the peels were too thick, and the flesh was never juicy enough.

"Daddy, Mommy's been super busy, so she couldn't come, but she misses you loads, I swear!" Ivy clung to her father, looking up earnestly as she spoke for Rosalynn.

"I know," Wayne replied, touching noses with his daughter. "Daddy might have to stay here a few more months, so I need Ivy to help take care of Mom a little longer, okay?"

"Okay!" Ivy nodded solemnly.

Soon enough, Penn arrived. With his good looks, Ivy took to him instantly, sweetly greeting him. Cory, on the other hand, was more reserved. He knew Penn was Wayne's primary doctor and had many questions about his father's health and diet.

He wanted to say how hard it was for his dad to gain weight, how his mom had worked so hard to nurse him back to health. But with Wayne and Ivy present, he held back.

With Penn's company, Wayne was allowed a temporary leave from the clinic. Since it was the Christmas season, the festive atmosphere was invigorating.

Wayne took his kids to a gingerbread shop, treating them to delicious gingerbread cookies and even had an extra one beautifully wrapped to take home to his wife. They also visited a famous local indoor amusement park, where they enjoyed the rides and games together.

Time with loved ones always seems to fly by. Before they knew it, it was evening, and the streets were aglow with charming Christmas lights.

Baillie approached Penn, persuading, "What's the rush? Let Wayne tuck the kids in, let them fall asleep in his arms before we take him back to the clinic, okay?"

Penn looked at the trio, their bond so strong it was hard to bear the thought of separating them again.