The rain hasn’t stopped since we crossed into Reydon. Seven years. Seven years since I walked out of that hospital room, heart breaking with every step, knowing Samuel would live—but only if I disappeared.\n\nNow, I’m standing across the street from Payne Tower, my daughter tugging my sleeve. 'Is that Daddy’s building?' she asks. I can’t speak. My throat tightens like it’s still full of all the words I never said.\n\nThen I see him.\n\nSamuel. Alive. Strong. In a tailored coat, stepping out under the awning with his father. He turns—and freezes. Our eyes lock. The world narrows to that single moment.\n\nHe starts toward me.\n\nMy body screams to run. But my daughter grips my hand tighter. 'Don’t go,’ she whispers.\n\nHe’s closing the distance. Ten feet. Five.\n\nDo I turn and flee—protecting the lie that saved him?\n\nDo I stay and finally tell the truth?\n\nOr do I let him speak first, and risk hearing hatred in his voice?