The Cherished Wife

As soon as Brandon heard Tania's words, his big, bright eyes sparkled like stars. "Hello, Grandma! I'm Brandon, Daddy and Mommy's son!"

His soft, sweet voice was absolutely adorable, melting Zara's heart completely. "Ah, what a good child. Brandon, was it? I love you very much!" Zara gently squeezed Brandon's tiny hand, her eyes filling with tears. "This is wonderful. Truly wonderful." She felt that even if she passed away right then, she would be utterly content.

"Grandma, why are you crying? Don't cry!" Brandon stretched out his little hand to wipe Zara's tears. "Mommy says when you're happy, you should smile. Grandma, don't cry. Is Daddy bullying you?

"I'll stand up for you, Grandma. Daddy says you're his mom, so it wouldn't be right for Daddy to bully you. Look, I don't bully my mommy!"

Both Tania and Zara burst into laughter at Brandon's innocent words. Zara wiped away her tears, smiling. "No, your daddy treats me very well-very well, indeed. I'm crying because I'm too happy. I'm just so happy to see you and your mommy, that's all!" "Oh, that's strange. Isn't it normal to smile when you're happy?"

Ms. Tania, Brandon, come inside. You all

floor while he took off his shoes. "Brandon, go sit with Grandma

trotted over to the couch, his big, curious eyes scanning everything around him as if it were all fascinating and

glancing at Tania. "The slippers are.in here. They're the ones you used to wear. Zara takes them out every so often to clean them, so they're spotless. If there's anything you don't like, let me know.

paused, her hand halting as she removed her shoes. She felt a strange

regard and a man who looked down on others from a tall place.

and then led her to

Tania thought she was no more than a tiny figure in his eyes. She could hardly imagine Peter, of all people,