Riley POV
The hospital room felt stifling, filled with the faint beeping of machines and the lingering scent of antiseptic. Riley sat close to Alex's bedside, her hands clasped tightly together, still reeling from the events of the fire. Mason stood nearby, his presence a quiet reassurance amidst the uncertainty.
David, their father, pulled up a chair beside them, his expression grave yet determined. He glanced at each of them in turn, his eyes holding a mix of paternal concern and a weight of responsibility.
"Girls," David began, his voice steady, "what happened tonight... it wasn't just an accident."
Alex looked up at him, her brow furrowing. "What do you mean, Dad?"
David took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "Your mother and I have kept a secret from you fo
