The Cherished Wife

"They'll be up in a jiffy!" Noelle reassured Brandon, keeping an eye on the unfolding scene outside.

Whatever Peter had said seemed to have left Jordan with a sour look as he and Layla made their exit. Both of them had peered into the car before leaving, and at the sight of Brandon, their faces told a tale of mixed emotions. Once Layla and Jordan had disappeared, Tania finally spun around and hopped into the car.

Peter shot Tania a meaningful look before he got in too.

Tania, catching sight of Brandon in his safety seat, looked momentarily surprised. Noelle was the one to break the silence. "Peter's always thinking ahead. I need to get a safety seat for Brandon too. It's just not safe without one!" Peter's lips twitched into a faint smile. "Lareal always says that babies are only safe in their car seats."

Tania's gaze dropped, her mind seemingly full of thoughts.

The moment they hit the mall, Brandon turned into an explorer, tugging Noelle along as he dashed from store to store, his eyes lighting up at every new treasure he found. Noelle, who had a soft spot for Brandon, just could not say no to him. It ended up with Noelle leading a merry Brandon on a shopping adventure while Peter and Tania trailed behind, wallets out and arms full of bags.

in Carvonia, she was swamped with work, and Trevon was hardly ever home. They did not even share a roof, and

ago had left Tania scared to take Brandon on any real

laugh and play together made Tania wonder if she had been wrong

spend time with Peter, seeing Brandon's happiness made it impossible

stayed close to

out, Tania's laughter joined in,

fun-filled day, they all headed back home, their arms laden with the day's treasures. Brandon, completely tuckered out, had dozed off in Neelle's embrace. His tiny fingers gripped her shirt like he never wanted to let go. Noelle gazed at his peaceful face,

Noelle cradle Brandon so gently and blurted out, "Hey, Noelle, when are you gonna talk to my brother about having a kiddo of your own?" Noelle's eyes widened, and she glanced up

chuckled. "You seem