Mrs. Hargrove led her upstairs without another word, but later warned her that wandering was not appreciated and that Dr. Collins held influence in the household. Rebecca simply nodded and stored the warning away.
The next morning, she tried to open the windows in the twins’ room. They were sealed shut. Daniel appeared behind her.
“What are you doing?”
“I was trying to let in fresh air,” she answered.
“The air system is filtered,” he replied.
“It is recirculated,” she said carefully. “And the room smells strongly of disinfectant. Continuous exposure in closed rooms can cause harm.”
Daniel’s expression darkened. “Are you accusing my staff of harming my children?”
“No,” Rebecca said. “I think someone chose strong products without realizing the danger.”
Before he could respond, a cry came from the room. Lucas convulsed suddenly, trembling violently. Rebecca moved instantly, guiding him safely to his side while Daniel called emergency services. Aaron cried and clung to her. Paramedics arrived and took Lucas to the hospital.
Later that night, Rebecca sat beside Aaron, who asked quietly, “Will my brother be okay?”
“The doctors are helping him,” she said. “And I will help too.”