Chapter 153

Haley’s POV: The first thing I noticed when I stepped into the hospital room was how small she looked. For years, the word mother had been just an empty space inside me, a shadow that I avoided touching because it hurt too much. But now, there she was in front of me—my birth mother—lying against crisp white sheets, her body fragile beneath the thin hospital gown. Her hair, was streaked with silver, brushed neatly over her shoulders. Her skin looked pale, almost translucent, but her eyes… her eyes were alive. Deep, knowing, and fixed on me the moment I walked in. I froze at the door. My breath caught in my throat, and for a second I didn’t know what to do with my hands. Should I smile? Should I run? Should I call her Mother? Logan’s warm hand touched the small of my back. His voice was soft, careful. “Haley… it’s alright. She’s waiting for you.” I nodded quickly, though my heart was racing. I forced my feet forward, one step at a time, until I stood beside the bed. She smiled faintly, h