Parents.. with different treatment

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From that day forward, Colby showed up at the hospital every day, a quiet, determined presence in Xander's room. He would bring little things he thought might cheer Xander up—a new book, his favorite snacks, or sometimes just a silly story to make him laugh. And each time he walked in, Xander's face lit up with the same joy and hope that had been missing for so long.

Valerie and Sam, staying at home to give father and son space, anxiously awaited news from Xander after each visit. Valerie was cautiously hopeful, her heart warming at the thought that maybe, just maybe, Colby was beginning to realize how much Xander needed him. Sam, though wary, wanted to support any positive change that could help Xander heal.

Every day, Colby spent hours sitting by Xander's bedside, listening to him talk about the books he was reading or his dreams of going back to school and playing outside with Xavier and Victoria. For the first time, Colby seemed to genuinely listen, his usual sharpness softening into real interest. He even helped Xander with little tasks that were difficult for him in his weakened state, patiently adjusting his oxygen mask or carefully holding his hand as they talked.

One afternoon, Xander looked up at his dad, his eyes wide and hopeful. "Dad... will you still visit me when I go home?"

Colby swallowed, a flicker of emotion crossing his face. He reached out, resting a hand on Xander's. "Yeah, buddy. I'll be there. Every day, if you want."

Xander's smile was small but filled with pure joy, his tired eyes sparkling. "I'd like that, Dad. I... I really would."

As the days passed, it became clear that Colby's daily visits were doing something powerful for Xander's recovery. His health was still fragile, but the happiness he felt in his father's presence gave him strength. And for Colby, each visit seemed to bring him closer to the understanding of how important he was in Xander's life, how much his son longed for his love and approval.

Back at home, Valerie and Sam kept their hopes tempered but noticed how much lighter Xander sounded on the phone, how his voice carried a newfound joy each time he shared about his dad's visit. It was a small, hopeful step toward healing—one that had been a long time coming.