Ran Away Pregnant Came Back Alpha Heiress (Amelia and Damien) novel Chapter 256

**Night Whispers Forgotten Names – Colin Shah 256**

**Chapter 256**

**Amelia’s POV**

As the hours slipped away, a yawn escaped Amy’s lips, signaling the day’s end. The clock on the wall ticked steadily, and it was evident that Mom and Dad were growing increasingly anxious about her lack of sleep. Dad excused himself for a moment, likely to confer with Damien about the ongoing situation. When he returned, his demeanor was resolute; he insisted on escorting Amy back to the Alpha King’s palace for the night.

“You should come with us,” Mom urged, her voice laced with concern. “There’s really nothing more you can do here at the moment.”

Her words rang true, echoing in my mind, but the thought of leaving felt profoundly unsettling. Even though I wasn’t needed, even though Damien had suggested I go, a part of me felt anchored to this place, as if my heart had taken root in this very spot.

What if something unforeseen occurred? What if they needed me? The mere idea of walking away without knowing felt unbearable.

I couldn’t do it. No amount of reasoning would sway me otherwise.

“Thanks, but I think I’ll stay just in case. The Head Healer mentioned there’s a couch in the break room. I can catch some sleep there,” I replied, trying to sound casual.

Mom studied me, her expression a mixture of worry and understanding, but I waved her concerns away with a reassuring smile.

“It’s okay. Really. I wouldn’t be able to relax if I left. I want to be here, just in case something happens,” I reiterated, the words tumbling out in a rush.

How could I articulate this strange sense of obligation? I had no real ties to Damien or to Stacy, after all. She was born from an affair that had unfolded behind my sister’s back. Yet, despite all that, an invisible thread connected me to this moment, binding me to the chaos and uncertainty that lingered in the air.

Mom seemed to grasp my unspoken feelings, though a hint of sadness clouded her eyes. “I understand, Annette. Just try to rest, okay? You did so well today. There’s no need to torment yourself.”

“I promise I’ll get some sleep,” I assured her. “By morning, you won’t even notice I spent the night on a couch instead of in a bed.”

With a nod, she leaned in and enveloped me in a quick, warm embrace. Then, with a heavy heart, we parted ways. Mom, Dad, and Amy departed, leaving me alone in the waiting room. I lingered for a moment, the silence enveloping me like a shroud, before retreating to the backrooms in search of the break room.

Upon entering, I was greeted by the sight of a coffee pot, a flickering television, and a modest table surrounded by mismatched chairs. The couch against the wall, worn and frayed, bore the scars of time and use. Yet, to my exhausted eyes, it resembled a luxurious king-sized bed, its cushions beckoning me to rest.

With a sigh of relief, I collapsed onto it, allowing my fatigued body to sink into the fabric. I had held it together throughout the day, but the weight of the healer’s duties had drained me. Now, as I lay there, my mind began to drift, teetering on the edge of slumber.

After a few deep breaths, I succumbed to sleep, the world around me fading into a comforting darkness.

**Damien’s POV**

I maintained my vigil at Stacy’s side, my heart heavy as I awaited the moment she would awaken. These situations demanded patience, yet I found myself desperate for her to open her eyes and reassure me that she was alright. I had faith in Annette and the healers, but as long as my daughter lay on that hospital bed, nothing would truly calm my nerves until I saw her vibrant and healthy again.

However, my eyelids were growing heavy, and I could feel the pull of fatigue. What I truly needed was a jolt of caffeine.

“I’ll be right back,” I murmured to her, my voice barely above a whisper. “If you wake up, don’t be scared.”

A pang of guilt tugged at my heart as I prepared to leave her side, but I knew that a quick trip to the employee breakroom for coffee would be beneficial. Just a couple of minutes, and I would be back with her.

If Stacy happened to wake while I was gone, she wouldn’t be alone for long.

—

The thought hit me like a wave of guilt. What was I doing, allowing myself to think of her in such a way?

Amelia was the one I loved, and that love would remain steadfast.

“Get a grip,” I muttered to myself, forcing my feet to move back toward the coffee pot. After pouring a steaming cup, I exited the room, deliberately avoiding a glance at the couch—and its sleeping occupant—once more.

**Amelia’s POV**

I waited, holding my breath until Damien’s footsteps faded down the hallway before I finally opened my eyes.

I had stirred awake the moment I felt two strong hands gently shifting me, but I had kept my eyes shut, curious to see what would transpire next.

That touch had felt achingly familiar. Without needing to see him, I instinctively knew those hands belonged to Damien, and in that moment, I felt safe.

But I also understood that if I revealed my consciousness, he would immediately withdraw, apologize, and perhaps even push me away again. To prolong this moment, to protect my heart, I kept my eyes firmly closed.

I should despise him for what he had done to my sister, for betraying her trust with Claire. Yet, despite everything, I found it impossible to harbor hatred for him.

Something within me whispered that there was more to his story than I had ever realized.

Regardless, I needed to move on.

He didn’t belong to me, and he never would.