Julian’s Stand-In Wife

His words pierced right through Diana’s heart.

So, her son wasn’t abandoning her.

He didn’t choose his rich father over his poor mother, either.

He simply thought that resistance might lead to more suffering. Given that he had experienced the pain of getting dragged into the adults’ conflicts, it was understandable.

Diana hugged Sean even tighter. She couldn’t bear to let him go. “Sean, I’m so sorry. I’ve been so busy with work and taking care of Betty that I’ve neglected you.”

He was also a child.

How could he possibly consider so many things?

He was clearly hurt as well.

Yet all he was concerned about was how to become stronger, so he could protect her and Betty.

Her son didn’t abandon her.

But her overwhelming joy quickly gave way to deep, aching sorrow.

Julian was wrong.

She wasn’t a great mother.

children to bear so much at

Betty leave with Julian was the

the

to live life as if he were walking

have many options to choose from

wouldn’t fear

happily. Mommy will be fine. From now on, don’t think so much. Two- year-olds like you should be having trips to the beach, play with balloons and kites, roll around on grass, or beg

like Sean, so

being this

Diana’s heart, giving her

more than the thought of her

I’m counting on you,” she said. The color had returned to her cheeks, and Julian thought she

now a huge gap

return to the

had grown so tall,

was passing them by

had to

course,” Julian said. He carried both children in his

as they were about to leave, Sean suddenly said,

stopped in his tracks. “What’s the matter? Did

Betty and I are fulfilling your request by going home with you. In that case, you should agree to a request of

Julian was stunned.