Life is different. There’s the relief that Kieron is now healthier than he has been in years thanks to Connor’s generosity. Aidan had taken him to a therapist before he signed the consent form. He’d wanted to make sure Connor wasn’t agreeing to something out of some misplaced sense of guilt, but he’d done his own research. Was just as knowledgeable about the operation, and the recovery, as well as the emotional implications as anyone. Mr Peters was certain Connor was sure he’d known what he was agreeing to. Still, Aidan had been a wreck when both boys were in the theatre, thoughts of losing Catherine, fear of history repeating itself never too far away.

Now they are both recovering well, he is relishing the time with his boys while his wife is away. Thankfully, Kieron can’t remember anything that happened. Aidan has promised them both he will take them riding. They’ve already visited the stables and met the horses he will hire. He is no longer scared of being back in the saddle. He won’t be scared of anything again.

They are almost there.

It’s hard for the boys seeing Lucy in this facility, catatonic. Not understanding why she won’t – can’t – speak to them. Her doctor says it’s the trauma. Encourages them to talk to her in the hope that one day she might reply.

Aidan hopes it is today.

Chapter Ninety-Four

Lucy

I want to come back. I do. I hear everything my family say to me even if I don’t reply.

I can’t reply.

Kieron has had his transplant and I no longer have to live in fear that he will die like Catherine, but the weight of responsibility to keep everyone safe is too heavy for me to bear.

A nurse fills up my favourite mug with tea; Aidan had brought it from home. ‘Your husband and kids will be here in a minute.’

I look at those tiny hands and feet on the side of my mug – Catherine’s hands and feet – and Connor and Kieron come to mind, once equally small and needy. I want to say something today, even if it’s only hello.

I want to test my voice to see if it works – it’s been so long since I heard it.

I open my mouth, but instead of words, out slips a tune.

‘Hush little baby, don’t say a word.’ I sing it over and over again.

One day I’ll come back to them.

One day.

But not today.

Gripped by All For You? Don’t miss more thrilling and page-turning psychological thrillers from Louise Jensen:

The Stolen Sisters

The Family

And make sure you keep on reading for an exclusive excerpt from The Stolen Sisters!

The Following Letter Contains Spoilers

Hello,