Chapter 143

** Callen’s POV ** The morning air is crisp when I step outside, the kind that fills your lungs and makes you feel alive again. Jaxon talks quietly, his voice a little raspy. He’s sitting on the porch with Parker, wrapped in a blanket that’s far too big for him. Parker’s trying to convince him that porridge will make him feel better, and Jaxon’s unimpressed expression says exactly what he thinks of that. I can’t help but smile. Paige was right; his fever broke sometime before dawn. Ryder stayed with him through most of the night, letting the kid sleep curled against his chest. Remy and I took turns after that. I ended up on the floor beside the bed, half-asleep, listening to Jaxon’s breathing. Paige catches my eye through the kitchen window. She’s standing by the sink, her hair pulled back, cheeks still pink from sleep. The sight hits me like a quiet ache. She doesn’t have to do anything grand to make me fall for her again, just exist. I lift my cup toward her in greeting, and she smil