Chapter 20

Sarah brought the first aid supplies, and Ryan began cleaning and dressing Iris’s wound.

He worked with surprising tenderness, his earlier anger replaced by concern. When Sarah returned with a glass of water, Ryan helped Iris drink it. He covered her with a blanket and watched her until she fell into a fitful sleep.

He stayed by her side, his mind racing with questions and worry

First thing in the morning, Ryan called the family doctor. The doctor arrived promptly, carrying his medical bag. He examined Iris thoroughly, running a few tests and checking her vitals.

"She’s been through a lot," the doctor said, his tone serious. "What happened?"Ryan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I don't know. She went out and came back looking distressed and with bruises.

She hasn’t told me what happened yet."The doctor nodded, prescribing some medication. "Let her rest. She’ll be fine, but she needs time to recover."

Ryan thanked the doctor and saw him out. He didn’t go to the office that