Kamille's POV

At the break of dawn, Royer gently shook me awake, his voice filled with a pitiful cry. "Mom, wake up," he whispered, tapping me again. "I feel fine, and I want to go to school with Reon, Torin, and Tyris today," he insisted, his eyes pleading for my understanding.

Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I smiled at his eagerness. "Hold on, Royer. Let's wait for the doctor's final word," I replied softly but firmly.

Already awake, I freshened Royer and got him dressed. His excitement was beautiful to watch as he chattered animatedly about his plans for the day. Despite my lingering worries, his infectious enthusiasm brought a smile to my face.

Once Royer was ready, I took him to the kitchenette in the private ward and prepared a simple breakfast for both of us.

After breakfast, I went to the doctor's office. Royer's hand was clasped firmly in mine as I approached the receptionist. "Excuse me, could I speak to Dr. John about Royer's discharge?" I asked.

The receptionist nodded, and I was immediately ushered into the doctor's office.

Entering, I greeted Dr. John with a warm smile, and Royer did the same.

"Dr. John, I wanted to check on Royer's condition," I began. "He's been feeling much better and is eager to go to school today. Is he well enough?"

Dr. John studied Royer's chart for a moment before looking up with a reassuring smile. "Yes, Kamille, Royer's progress has been excellent. He's cleared to go to school, but I would advise informing his teachers to refrain from strenuous activities for the time being."

I smiled, nodding in understanding. "Of course, I'll make sure his teachers are aware. Thank you, Doctor," I said warmly, patting his head. He was engrossed in a game on my phone. I doubted the little guy understood his request had been approved.

"You're welcome, Ms. Kamille," the doctor replied. "But the discharge is still under review. If he continues to do extremely well for a few more days, he'll be good to go."

"That's fine, Doc. Thank you again," I replied.

Returning my attention to Royer, I explained the doctor's approval in a way he'd understand. "Royer, guess what? You're cleared to go to school!" I said gently, stroking his hair.

Royer's eyes lit up with joy, his face breaking into a wide grin. "Really, Mom? That's awesome!" he exclaimed, his excitement infectious as he practically bounced with glee.

I smiled and helped him down from his seat as we left the doctor's office. We returned to the room and began getting him ready for his first day back at school.

I quickly called Nanny Dona. "Hello, Dona," I said after the call connected.

"Good morning, Ms. Kamille. It's so good to hear from you," the elderly woman's voice beamed with delight.

"So good to hear from you too, Dona. I'm sorry I haven't been in touch as I should have been," I apologized.

"It's alright, Ms. Kamille. I'm okay knowing the kids are doing fine, as are you," she replied.

"Thank you. Could you please bring Royer's school uniform? He's going to school today!" I said, smiling at Royer as he jumped up excitedly.

"Of course, I can. I'll be there in a minute," Nanny Dona replied. After expressing my gratitude, we hung up. Within minutes, Nanny Dona arrived, Royer's school uniform neatly pressed.

"Nanny Dona!" Royer screamed upon seeing her.

"Oh, my dear child! It's so good to see you up and active," Nanny Dona said, wrapping him in a warm hug.

"Thank you, Dona," I said, taking the uniform.

"It's alright, Ms. Kamille. I'll dress him," she smiled warmly. Her smile reminded me of Grandma Monica.

Nanny Dona dressed Royer. She helped him with his uniform, straightening his collar. Suddenly, the door burst open, and his siblings entered, already dressed for school, their faces alight with excitement.

"Mum! Royer! Nanny Dona!" they exclaimed in unison, rushing to hug their brother, then me and Nanny Dona.

I smiled at my children; their joy was infectious and heartwarming. "Good morning, my darlings," I greeted them lovingly.

Nanny Dona followed, "Good morning, kids," she said gently, embracing each child.

After a happy reunion, the children gathered their belongings, ready for school. I watched proudly as they chattered excitedly, their laughter filling the room.

Since Royer was going to school, I had no reason to stay at the hospital. I found the blue wig Amanda had given me, brushed it, and put it on. Then I put on tinted glasses to complete my disguise.

As Nanny Dona prepared to leave, I approached her gratefully. "Thank you, Dona, for everything you do," I said sincerely.

Nanny Dona returned the smile, her eyes brimming with affection. "It's my pleasure, Ms. Kamille. You know I'll always be here for you and the children," she replied.

After our farewells, Nanny Dona left, leaving me with the kids. Zeke's security arrived soon after, and I guided the children into the car. With my kids safely buckled in, I took the front seat, and we drove away.

Tyris and Torin told Royer about school while he was away; Reon quietly drew, occasionally joining their conversation. Their energy warmed my heart.

Suddenly, my phone buzzed with a message from Amanda. I opened it to find a concerning message about Belle. A crease formed on my forehead as I read:

Hello Love,

I know the timing may not be perfect, but since we are all friends, I thought it wise to inform you about it. Belle has been acting more withdrawn, more secretive, and has reduced communication. I really don’t know what is going on with her. I have tried talking to her, but it’s to no avail, and I am really worried for her. Do what you can, Kam, but I want our Belle back.

Amy.

After reading the message, I sighed. Belle had definitely been acting strangely for days. She'd stayed away from work, needed rest, and hadn't introduced us to her fiancé.

I replied: "Let's fix a meeting—you, Belle, and me. I will reach out to her. Kam." I hit send, then dialed Belle's office line. There was no answer.

I called her home line. She answered the second time. "Hello, Bestie," I greeted.

"Hello, Kam. How are you?" Belle replied, her voice muffled.

Was she crying?