The Cherished Wife

"It's here."

Peter opened the study door, motioning for Tania to step inside. She walked in and realized the room's layout was exactly as it had been years ago, right after she and Peter got married. Nothing had changed in the entire Five Elements Residence. Peter noticed her reaction but said nothing, only gesturing for her to sit. "Go on. If you're here to tell me to give up, I'm not interested in listening."

Tania opened her mouth, hesitating. "It's about Brandon."

Peter paused, a flicker of concern crossing his gaze.

"I need you to look into something."

"Tell me," he said.

"A year ago, Brandon was kidnapped. Ever since, he has shown unusual behavior for a child his age. I was worried something was wrong, so I took him to see a psychologist. The doctor said he'd been traumatized and was showing signs of... emotional instability and some developmental delays."

Emotional instability? Developmental delays? Peter frowned. Could it really be that serious?

he had not

I'm lying to you? I honestly thought I might have been mistaken too. Brandon's been so normal with you... So normal

then, he would go blank and even ramble nonsensically. Do you know why I was afraid to take him to an amusement park? It was because that was where he was abducted. I tried a few times after, but he had always reacted with such resistance." "What do you want me to do?" Peter asked, his brows furrowed. "Do

when Brandon was

eyes.

of relief, though Peter seemed slightly irritated

is my son

with Peter's knowing look, the

onto what happened three years ago, but believe me, I'll get to the bottom of it. And

paternity test is just a piece

need for proof, you know I can get one easily enough, but I'd rather not." Peter

found herself unable