Chapter 583: His Condition Has Worsened

“The child was brought in just in time; there’s no longer a life-threatening risk,” the doctor said. “However, frequent follow-up examinations are necessary to prevent frostbite aftereffects.”

A wave of relief washed over Miranda. “All right, thank you, Doctor,” she said. She and Adrian immediately went to see their child.

Cecilia, noticing the doctor hadn’t mentioned Elliot, asked, “Doctor, how is my son, Elliot?”

The doctor sighed. “He suffers from leukemia, and his condition has worsened recently. Hospital admission for observation and treatment is necessary.”

Cecilia was astonished. She felt inadequate as a mother. Elena and Niel were equally shocked. “Eli has leukemia?” Elena exclaimed.

The doctor countered, “As family, you’re only learning this now?” Elena was speechless.

They then visited Elliot and Felix. Elliot, surrounded by medical equipment, murmured upon waking, “Mommy, I didn’t hurt Felix.”

Cecilia nodded. “Yes, I believe you. Rest; no need to talk.” Elena added, “Eli, your great-grandfather and I believe you. It was Felix. Don’t be afraid; I’ll stand up for you.”

Elliot turned away. Elena’s embarrassment didn’t mask her genuine affection.

With the children temporarily safe and Niel distressed, he sent Nicholas and others home. Subsequently, he called Cecilia and Elena outside.

Niel tapped his cane. “Cecilia, how could you disappear for five years, and why didn’t you tell us about his illness?”

Cecilia was speechless. Elena interjected, “If you were pregnant, you should have told me! Proper care would have prevented this.” She then asked, “What about Jon?”

Cecilia, seeing genuine concern, explained, “Jon is healthy.”

“Jon?” Niel asked, confused.

Elena explained, “Dad, Cecilia had twins.”

Niel, overjoyed at the prospect of great-grandchildren, asked, “Where is he?”

“With Cecilia’s friend, Vivian,” Elena replied.

“A Rainsworth child living elsewhere? Have Jon and Eli move back to the Rainsworth residence in a few days,” Niel declared, without consulting Cecilia. To them, she was merely a child-bearing vessel.

Cecilia clenched her fists. “The kids live with me.”

Niel was displeased. “The Rainsworth family has no such rule. If you want them, you move in, like Miranda.” He left to see Felix.

Elena gave Cecilia a cold glance and left early. Only Nathaniel, Cecilia, and Elliot remained. Elliot fell asleep, a rare tranquility settling over the room.

Ever since discovering both children were his, Nathaniel had remained silent, awaiting Cecilia’s explanation.