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?

the time he had spent with Brandon lately, he had not seen anything out of the ordinary. Brandon

might have been mistaken too. Brandon's been so normal with you... So normal that I almost

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

Tania's expression darkened. "Jack wasn't around when Brandon was kidnapped. I never

eyes.

relief, though Peter seemed

my son

However, with Peter's knowing look, the words would not come out. There was no way he would believe something like

believe me, I'll get to the bottom of it. And as for Brandon... He looks

is just a piece

for proof, you know I can get one easily enough, but I'd rather

Tania found herself unable to