Love beyond the mask (Whitney) novel Chapter 1160

Sammy and Danny both widened their eyes in surprise at the sudden change in Mom’s attitude.

Her fingertips, warm and gentle, barely brushed their baby sister’s cheek.

And then, as if some invisible thread of family pulled them together, a miracle happened—little Molly stopped crying. The heartbreaking wails faded, and her big round eyes blinked up at Whitney, searching for comfort. Her tiny mouth puckered, instinctively reaching out for closeness.

That sacred bond between mother and daughter—it hit Whitney hard. Her eyes grew misty, red at the corners.

She bit her lip and whispered, “You’re a fighter, sweetheart. I promise, I’ll do whatever it takes to help you pull through.”

Sammy clung to Danny’s hand, squeezing tight.

The two brothers met each other’s gaze, both blinking away tears. Sammy noticed that, even though Mom hadn’t called herself “Mommy” to Molly yet—maybe it was too soon, too hard to accept—she was already worrying about her.

That was enough for now. More than enough.

“Mom, the doctor just checked on Molly,” Sammy reminded her in a small voice. “Her lungs are stable today. They said it’s a good time to try a new treatment. The doctors are waiting outside, just for you to start.”

Whitney nodded, her eyes never leaving her tiny daughter. She bent low and murmured, “This might hurt a little, honey. But you gotta be brave, okay?”

That, plus the sight of the shiny needles and the cold steel scalpel on the tray, made Sammy’s palms sweat. He was terrified for his sister.

“Sammy, Danny, you two wait outside,” Whitney said quietly, turning to them.

“Mom…” Sammy hesitated, glancing at the tools, “What are you gonna do to Molly? Those needles look really scary…”

“Sammy, you’re the big brother. Be strong for your sister,” Whitney said, her voice firm. “You don’t need to see this. Go.”