Caught Off Guard

Thalia’s POV

Cool evening air met my face as I pushed through the clinic exit with Penelope cradled against my shoulder.

I shifted her gently in my arms, though the doctor’s unsettling remarks refused to fade. Glancing at the fresh bandage on her small hand, a quiet knot of worry stayed tight in my chest.

“How did this even happen?” I murmured under my breath.

Penelope blinked up at me with wi