I Walked Away Seven Years Too Late But Right on Time novel Chapter 271

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Entering December, Rosemary's health deteriorated rapidly. Every time they video called, she was confined to her bed, descending into coughing fits after just a few sentences.

Even without Gillian having to spell it out, Gavin could read the grim reality on his mother's face. Things were looking bleak.

After ending the call, Gavin sat on the couch, resting his elbows on his knees and burying his face in his hands.

"We're going back for the holidays to see her," Sophie said softly, gently stroking his hair to comfort him.

"Coco is still so tiny... Maybe I'll just take Ethan."

Gavin hesitated. The baby was barely three months old. He wasn't sure she could handle the brutal winter travel.

"Grandma hasn't even held Coco yet. We are all going. I'm a walking milk supply, so she'll be perfectly fine."

Sophie was adamant. Whether for Rosemary's sake or Gavin's, she wanted them all to be together for the holidays.

She mentioned the plan to Sarah, who immediately agreed. On Sunday, Sarah even went to light a candle at the local church, praying for Rosemary's health. But she knew that no amount of spiritual comfort could compare to having family by your side.

Gavin strapped Coco into a carrier against his chest.

Bundled up in a thick snowsuit and a tiny beanie, only Coco's massive, curious eyes peeked out to take in the world around her.

When the family of five arrived at the airport, Harold was already there waiting for them, and Sophie was wrangling the luggage.

He had taken a red-eye flight just to meet them so they could all travel together.

Graham pulled up in a seven-seater SUV to pick them up. Seeing Coco strapped to Gavin's chest, he gently squeezed her tiny hand and asked, "Did the trip wear her out?"