He wasn't yet so big, but he managed his nighttime routine quite well - washing up, changing into his pajamas, and getting into bed without needing much assistance.

“Do you think I'm too strict with you?" Camila asked, brushing his hair softly with her hand.

Joe reached out and hugged her. "I love being with Mommy," he expressed, conveying that despite any challenges, their bond brought him immeasurable happiness.

As they settled in for the night, Camila enveloped Joe in a warm embrace. "I faced similar challenges when I was young, always learning," she reminisced softly.

Joe nodded in understanding, his gaze fixed on his mother.

"Without knowledge, a person lacks depth," Camila mused, her voice tinged with hope. “Joe, I hope you grow up to surpass both Mommy and Daddy."

Joe nodded once more, his expression earnest as he absorbed her words.

"Got it," he affirmed.

Camila continued to soothe him with gentle pats on his back, lulling him closer to sleep.

Nestled against her chest, Joe found solace in his mother's embrace and drifted off into a peaceful slumber.

Once Joe was soundly asleep, Camila carefully extracted herself from his embrace, ensuring he remained undisturbed.

She tucked him in snugly, watched him for a moment to confirm he was still asleep, and then quietly left the room.

Back in her own room, Camila changed the dressing on her wound, which was now mostly healed but still required care to prevent scarring.

She applied a layer of scar removal cream, hoping to minimize any lasting marks.

As the sound of footsteps approached the door, signaling Forrest's return, Camila swiftly got dressed and opened the door.

Camila spotted Forrest tiptoeing back to his room.

"Where were you?" she called out.

Forrest straightened, a smile spreading across his face. "Nowhere."

"Didn't anyone tell you I called?" she pressed.

A flicker of embarrassment crossed Forrest's features.