Next One Is a Babe

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While both ladies stared at each other with boredom, Sophia appeared rather disturbed and preoccupied. Meanwhile, Old Mrs. Constance insisted on having Sophia’s company while watching TV, knowing that the latter was bothered by something else when she noticed that she couldn’t keep her eyes on the TV.

Therefore, the old lady tried to comfort her. “I guess John didn’t come home because he was probably just caught up in work last night. Don’t overthink, girl. I know my grandson, and he has never cared about anyone else more than you. Other than his job, you’re like the whole world to him.”

After hearing Old Mrs. Constance’s reply, Sophia realized that she had been misunderstood. Thus, she smiled and explained herself, “I never suspected that John would do something like that to me. I’m just a little worried about his health instead. He’s been busy the past few days, and I wish he could have some rest.”

Old Mrs. Constance paused and nodded in agreement. “Yeah, you’re right. John is just like his father. When William was younger, he would forget about sleeping and eating for the sake of work. Sometimes, I don’t really understand what the boys are thinking. It’s not like we’re short of money, so there is really no need to push yourself so far.”

Soon, the old lady looked outside and added, “I’m old, and I’ve learned to get over a lot of things along the way. After all these years, nothing else matters to me except health. Every time I think about your grandpa, I can't help but feel sad and heartbroken. He wouldn’t have left us so soon if only he had taken care of his own health well when he was younger. While dying is easy, those who are gone will never know how much pain we have to go through every day.”

Sophia pursed her lips as she quietly listened to Old Mrs. Constance’s words.

Ever since her husband passed away, she has always looked so tough, like she has already accepted her bereavement. I guess I was wrong to think of her as an invincible older lady who never felt a single bit of pain.

In that instant, Sophia finally understood Old Mrs. Constance’s true feelings.

Despite the tough expression she often puts up, she is broken on the inside. Why would I even think that it was easy to get over the death of someone else we love so dearly?

Sophia held the old lady’s hand and sighed while the latter shifted her gaze to the former. “This is why I want the both of you to spend more time on those precious moments in your life. You can’t turn back time. So, don’t waste it, only to look back and regret it later. After all, life is short, and it’s not worth living a life that’s all about work.”

Nodding in agreement, she uttered, “I understand, Grandma.” As both of them continued to sit and talk for a few more moments, Matilda arrived and was seen holding a bag of fruits. She then called out to Sophia at the doorstep, “Hello, Sophia. Did you miss me?”

Sophia turned around and saw Matilda, who instantly put a smile on her face. “Hey, it’s good to see you. What took you so long? I thought you would have arrived long ago.” She stood up as she was about to help Matilda carry what she was holding.