Dawn broke, and Zach, despite a sleepless night, emerged from the bathroom full of energy. He picked a black floral shirt from his wardrobe, one that Madelyn had chosen for him.

Initially, Zach had resisted wearing such a flashy shirt, but gradually he found himself wearing it nearly every day, alternating with another of Madelyn's selections.

Madelyn had been restless since six in the morning, a sense of unease nudging her to check on Dalton. She found his forehead feverish to the touch. Thankfully, after administering medicine from his special medicine kit, his temperature began to subside.

"Get dressed, you're coming to the office with me," Zach announced.

Madelyn felt groggy. She shook her head and said, "I think I'm sick too."

Zach stopped midway through buttoning his shirt and turned toward her, his face lined with worry. He touched her feverish forehead and said, "I'll make my morning meeting quick and come right back. Kai will keep an eye on you."

Madelyn leaned back, rel