The Greatest Regret

I sold all my jewelry at the speed of light and at the lowest price, finally scraping together enough for the ransom.

Thankfully, Yael returned unharmed. If anything had happened to him, I would never have forgiven myself.

At the hospital, the doctors conducted a thorough examination of Yael. The results showed that, aside from mild dehydration, he was physically unharmed. However, the psychologist believed that the kidnapping had caused severe psychological trauma, resulting in selective mutism.

"What the child needs most right now is a sense of security and love," the psychologist said gently. "You should spend more time with him, create a warm and comfortable environment, and consider regular therapy sessions for psychological support."

I held Yael’s small hand tightly and nodded firmly. "I understand. Thank you, Doctor."

When I stepped out of the hospital, I saw Silas’s car parked at the entrance. He was leaning against the car door, watching us with an expressionless face.

I picked up Yael and walked straight toward him.

"How are the test results?" Silas asked, his tone still carrying a hint of impatience.

I replied calmly, "Yael is physically fine, but he’s suffered severe psychological trauma. The doctor recommended long-term therapy."

Silas frowned. "Therapy? Isn’t that just a scam to make money? Don’t let the doctor fool you."

I took a deep breath, struggling to suppress the anger rising within me. "Silas, what Yael needs most now is care and support. If you’re unwilling to cooperate with his treatment, then at least don’t interfere."

He let out a cold laugh. "And who do you think you are? Yael is my son. I’ll decide everything about him."

Holding Yael tightly, I met Silas’s gaze head-on. "Oh, really? Then why didn’t you save him immediately? Why did you let him go through such pain? Just because of baseless accusations?"

Silas’s expression shifted, and his tone turned even colder. "You don’t understand anything. This was a lesson for him!"

I shook my head, my heart filled with sorrow. "No, Silas. This wasn’t a lesson—it was cruelty. How can a father subject his child to such a terrifying ordeal just to punish him?"

He fell silent for a moment as if considering my words, but soon, he returned to his usual condescending demeanor. "Enough. Stop making a scene here. We’ll talk at home."

I carried Yael and got into the car.

The ride home was filled with an oppressive silence, suffocating and heavy.