The Bonds We Keep

Growing Pains

12 Years Ago

New York, November 2002

Third Person POV

Estella and Ethan had just turned two. The first years of their lives were challenging, especially after discovering that their youngest and only daughter, Estella, had been diagnosed with a critical heart defect. Her older brothers were fiercely protective, always including her in their activities and making sure she never felt left out. Cadence and Caspian had sat the children down early to explain Estella's condition and how it would affect her. Despite their efforts, there were moments when Cadence couldn't shake the guilt, wondering if she had done something wrong. But Caspian was always there, reassuring her, reminding her that sometimes life brings unexpected challenges, and the best they could do was face them together.

Beckett, her twelve-year-old brother, was particularly close to her. As the third oldest, he often played with the twins, making silly faces that coaxed laughter from Estella—an infectious sound that brightened the entire house. Ethan, already trying to walk, stayed close to Estella, but her movements were limited due to the feeding tube she required. Atlas and Achilles, the ten-year-old twins, were curious about their sister's condition and often asked questions. Caspian patiently explained, "The doctor says the tube helps her get the nutrition she needs because she was born so small. It's hard for her to eat enough on her own."

Their peaceful playtime was interrupted when Jasper, the second oldest at thirteen, came in to read a story to the twins. Beckett glanced up from the floor at his parents, who were sitting on the couch. "I think I want to be a doctor when I grow up," he announced with a bright smile. "That way, I'll always know how to help Ella when she's sick." Cadence's eyes filled with tears as she smiled at her son. Caspian, beaming with pride, replied, "That's a wonderful idea, son."

Eight Years Ago

Cadence's POV

The twins were six years old, and I sat in the doctor's office with Ethan and Estella while Caspian stayed home with the other kids. We were worried about Estella's slow weight gain and her lack of appetite. As we waited, Ethan held Estella's hand. "It'll be okay, sissy. I'm right here, and I'll protect you from all the monsters, remember?" His words comforted her, and I couldn't help but smile. Ethan had always been a bright and caring child, wise beyond his years.

My thoughts were interrupted as the doctor entered the room, holding Estella's chart. "Based on the tests, it looks like Estella might have celiac disease," he began, glancing my way. "To be certain, we'll need to run more tests, including a serology test to check for antibodies and a capsule endoscopy." He turned to Estella and softened his voice. "That means we'll use a tiny camera to look inside your tummy and see what's causing the problem."

Before I could respond, Ethan squeezed Estella's hand. "Will it hurt her?" he asked, his eyes wide with concern.

The doctor smiled kindly. "We'll give her something to help her sleep, so she won't feel a thing."

Ethan nodded in relief before turning to his sister. "Don't worry, Els. I'll be here the whole time. And Mommy said I can pick a surprise for you from the gift shop!" Estella's lips curved into a small smile. "Thank you, E-bee," she whispered, using the nickname she had for him.

After the Procedure

Caspian arrived at the hospital with the other kids, each carrying a gift for Estella to wake up to. My heart ached seeing how often Estella had been in and out of hospitals; it never seemed to end. As the boys entered the room, Caspian approached me, gently squeezing my hand before kissing my forehead. "Everything will be alright. She's our little fighter," he murmured softly. I smiled, leaning my head on his shoulder while the boys carefully arranged their gifts on the windowsill.

Soon, the nurse wheeled in a sleeping Estella, connecting her IV and adjusting the machines. "She should wake up soon," the nurse informed us. "Her throat might be sore, but she can have as many popsicles as she wants." With a gentle smile, the nurse left the room.

Thirty Minutes Later

Estella stirred, her eyes fluttering open. A soft smile appeared on her face when she noticed the gifts waiting for her. I stood by her side, gently running my fingers through her hair. "Water?" she croaked, her voice hoarse.

Jasper, quick to help, handed me a small cup with a straw. "Here you go," he offered. I smiled at him, grateful for his attentiveness. "Thank you."

Caspian sat nearby, keeping an eye on a sleeping Milo, their eleven-year-old who had dozed off. Meanwhile, Luca had taken Beckett and the twins to the vending machine, making sure they didn't eat in front of Estella since she couldn't have solid food yet.

When the doctor arrived, I stepped outside with him, leaving Caspian in the room in case Estella needed anything. "She does have celiac disease," the doctor confirmed. "I'll provide a list of foods she can and cannot eat. She'll need to follow a strict gluten-free diet to manage her symptoms, though this won't cure the condition."

I nodded, absorbing the information. "Thank you," I replied quietly, knowing that this would be another hurdle for our family to navigate, but also feeling reassured by the strength and love surrounding us.