Chapter 671

Chapter 671:

“That’s my girl!”

Colden affectionately ruffled Joy’s hair and gave her an approving thumbs-up.

“You’ve been good about taking your medicine, right?”

“Yes!” Joy answered enthusiastically, cuddling closer to Hadley. Her tiny voice was filled with pride, melting everyone’s hearts. “I always listen to Mommy!”

“Oh, is that right?”

Colden chuckled affectionately and reached into his pocket, producing…

A brightly wrapped candy. “Guess what I’ve got here?”

Joy’s eyes widened with wonder. “Wow, is that candy for Joy?”

“Sure is,” Colden answered, smiling gently. “But you’ll have to earn it by being brave during today’s tests.”

Today’s schedule was tough—blood draws and scans, things even adults dreaded, let alone a three-year-old.

“No problem!” Joy declared bravely. “Joy will be the bravest!”

“Good girl!”

Turning toward Hadley, Colden reassured her. “The nurse will stay with Joy the entire time. If you notice she’s uncomfortable, let me know immediately.”

“Thank you so much, Dr. Torres.”

“You’re welcome. I’m just doing my job.”

Scooping Joy into her arms, Hadley kissed her forehead. “Let’s be brave together, Joy. It’s test time.”

The tests stretched throughout the entire morning.

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By the end, Joy slumped wearily against Hadley, breaking her heart a little more with every tired sigh.

“Are you hungry, sweetheart? What do you want for lunch?”

Joy brightened slightly. “Joy wants Mommy’s yummy fruit pie!” Though Melba knew the recipe and stores sold similar pies, Joy insisted only Hadley’s tasted perfect.

“Of course.” Hadley didn’t hesitate for a moment. “Mommy will rush home now and bake one just for you.”

Passing Joy gently into Melba’s arms, Hadley instructed softly, “Give Joy sips of water, frequently but in small amounts.”

“I’ll handle it.”

After giving careful instructions, Hadley hurried back toward her apartment.

Holding Joy close, Melba stood patiently outside the testing room. Only one procedure remained.

“Almost there, Joy. Just one more test, and Mommy will be back soon with your special pie.”

“Okay.”

“Joy?” The nurse stepped out, beckoning gently. “It’s your turn now, sweetie. Let’s go inside.”

“Yes, okay.”

By the end, Joy was drained, leaning against Melba for comfort.

“Melba, where’s Mommy? Joy wants Mommy…”

Tears filled Melba’s eyes, falling uncontrollably. “Hang in there, sweetheart. Mommy’s on her way. Oh, my poor little one.” It wasn’t fair for a child so small to endure such difficulty.

“Joy?”

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