Chapter 16%
The sunlight streamed into the ward through the curtains, illuminating Scott’s quietly sleeping face.%
Since the surgery, Sebastian and I had been busy in the room, trying our best not to worry Scott.%
Even though he always said he was fine, I knew that a child’s mind is more sensitive than anyone else’s, especially during this time. The psychological pressure was far more unbearable for him than any physical discomfort.
“Do you think he’ll get better?” I asked Sebastian, my voice laced with worry.”
I stared at Scott lying on the bed, unable to shake the constant anxiety in my heart.”
Mental trauma is so complicated in children. I feared it might overwhelm him, feared he’d get lost in his silence.%
Sebastian was quiet for a moment before replying softly, “He will, Scott is smart and thoughtful. As long as he gets the right guidance, he can recover.”
Seeing his confidence, my heart felt a little more at ease.
A few days later, I was discharged from the hospital. A job interview opportunity arose, so I had to ask Sebastian to take Scott to the amusement park for the day.”
Scott didn’t run around happily like other children. Instead, he looked troubled, his face full of worry and concern.%
“Scott, what’s wrong? Are you unhappy?” Sebastian walked over to Scott and gently patted his shoulder.%
Scott shook his head and whispered, “I’m thinking about Mom. I don’t want her to worry. Did I do something wrong to make Mom so sad?”
Sebastian’s gaze softened. He squatted down, looking Scott directly in the eye. “Do you feel like your mother is very tired and working hard?”
Scott nodded, his eyes dim. “I don’t want Morn to be so tired. She worries about me every day. I should do better so she doesn’t have to worry.”
Sebastian sighed slightly, affectionately stroking Scott’s head. “Scott, do you know? Your mother has always loved you very much and she’s very proud to have you as her son. She works so hard for you, but you also need to take care of your own feelings. Don’t always put all the responsibility on yourself. Your mother worries about you, but she also hopes you can be happy and relax.“%
Scott lowered his head, tears welling up in his eyes. He bit his lower lip tightly, seemingly trying hard not to cry.%
“Don’t worry, your mother is getting better. She’s healing. What she needs most isn’t for you to worry all the time, but for you to be happy and do the things you enjoy.” Sebastian’s voice was gentle.
“You’re growing up now. Your mom hopes you can take care of yourself, too and become stronger. We’ll figure things out together later, so she doesn’t have to struggle so much anymore.“%
Listening to him, Scott’s eyes gradually brightened from their lowered state.”
He nodded lightly, seemingly trying to process Sebastian’s words./
Sebastian noticed his change in mood and chuckled softly, gently guiding him, “Scott, look, there’s a slide over there. How about we go play for a bit?“%
Scott hesitated, then finally managed a reluctant smile. “Okay, I’ll try.”
Sebastian breathed a sigh of relief when he finally seemed willing to try and relax. He led Scott toward a corner of the playground. Along the way, Sebastian did his best to slowly open Scott’s heart, preventing him from being overwhelmed by those heavy burdens.%
After trying a few rides, Scott finally showed a long–lost smile on his face. Though it carried a hint of shyness and nervousness, it at least proved he was starting to open up, no longer bottling up all his worries.”
“Dr. Lane, Scott suddenly spoke up, his voice soft, “Can I … go to school? I want to fit in here sooner, so Mom doesn’t have to work so hard.“%
“Your French is pretty good, isn’t it?” Sebastian chuckled, gently ruffling Scott’s hair. “If you want to go to school, we’ll find the right one for you. You’ll do just fine, no need to worry.“/
Scott looked up, a glimmer of hope shining in her eyes. “Really? Can 1?”
Sebastian nodded, his gaze full of encouragement and certainty. “Of course you can. You’ll adjust just fine. As long as you’re willing to try, I’ll help you find the best school.“%
