130 Under Control

(Judy)

I sit in the hotel room, staring at my reflection in the bathroom mirror. My hair is disheveled, my eyes red and puffy from lack of sleep and the constant stream of tears.

Jayden, my son, my only child, lies in a hospital bed fighting for his life.

For once, I feel utterly powerless. I turn on the shower, letting the steam fill the room, and step under the hot water, hoping it will wash away some of the guilt and fear clinging to me.

Winona. The name has been a thorn in my side for so long. I’ve never wanted her with Jayden, always believing she wasn’t good enough for him. But now, seeing the way he was willing to give up his life for her during the recent shooting, I’m forced to reevaluate everything.

He loves her deeply, and it’s a love that’s unshakeable. As much as it pains me to admit it, perhaps I’ve been wrong. My heart softens a little when I think of Abby, my granddaughter.

She’s a bright light in this darkness, and I can’t deny the bond I feel with her. Maybe, just