Miriam asked, “Are you leaving Nareigh?”

“I’m not, but I won’t bother Teresa anymore,” Jonathan replied.

Miriam paused, unsure how to respond. “You want to remarry, but Teresa doesn’t. Benny and I have tried everything to bring you two together, but you know how stubborn she is. Even though you’ve built a successful career, it doesn’t change anything,” she said. “Maybe it’s time for you two to let go and start over with someone else,” Miriam added.

Jonathan remained silent for a long time, his expression clouded. Finally, he asked, “She wants to be with that Truman guy, right?”

Miriam frowned. “I don’t know that person; Teresa never mentioned him. But what I meant wasn’t that she has found someone new, just that it might be best for both of you to move forward separately and let the past go.”

“I understand,” Jonathan responded.

Miriam watched Jonathan walk away, wondering, Does he truly understand? I hope he doesn’t overthink. Did I say the right thing?

After a feverish night and day, Teresa finally felt a bit better by early morning. She got out of bed, pulled a jacket around her shoulders, and went to get some water, but bumped into the couch. Miriam, disturbed by the noise, opened her eyes with a yawn. “You’re awake? How are you feeling? I kept your food warm in the pot. I’ll get it for you now,” she said concernedly.

Jonathan had prepared everything for her—thick, creamy gruel that was golden and fragrant, rousing her appetite; stir-fried vegetables; and pudding. Knowing her sore throat, he had also peeled her an orange.

Teresa sat down, coughing lightly, and croaked, “Why’d you call him over? It feels awkward.”

Miriam folded her hands together, looking helpless. “I didn’t know who else to ask. You don’t have anyone besides me, and, regardless of how he was, Jonathan’s a great cook. I figured eating your favorites would help you recover faster.”

Miriam pushed the food toward Teresa, coaxing, “Here, eat something.” But Teresa looked pale, her appetite completely gone.

“Even if you’re not hungry, just eat softly,” Miriam urged. “For Jonathan’s sake. He spent two hours cooking this. He even peeled the oranges for you. Show him some appreciation.”

Teresa finally gave in and had some gruel. Despite her cold, it tasted sweet and comforting.

Miriam had something she wanted to say, but seeing how exhausted Teresa looked, she decided to wait until she recovered. After finishing her meal, Teresa fell asleep for several more hours.

When Teresa woke up again, her mind felt clearer, but her hand was still clasped in a tiny, warm grip. Surprised, she looked down to find Michael with his head resting by her bedside. She hadn’t noticed when he had come in, but there he was, holding her hand tightly.

She ran her fingers through his hair, stirring Michael from his sleep. He rubbed his eyes, saying, “Mommy, you’ve been sleeping a long time.”

Teresa’s heart warmed as she asked, “Why are you sleeping here?”

Michael pressed her hand to his face and said quietly, “I was afraid you’d leave me.” Hearing this, Teresa was torn between laughter and tears.

Michael sniffled and leaned his forehead against hers, adding, “I don’t want you to be sick. I want you to be okay.”

Teresa brushed his hair gently, soothing him. “I’m okay. It’s just a little cold. I’m all better now, aren’t I?”

Teresa had always thought of death as just a quiet end. But now, realizing that she had something worth holding onto, she couldn’t leave Michael alone in this world. She decided to stick around a little longer—at least until he grew up.

With something to live for, Teresa felt much better. Michael also promised he’d take care of everything if she got well.

“Deal,” Teresa agreed.

In the afternoon, they ventured to Druobridge to shop. Michael stuffed the items into his small backpack but was quickly weighed down by it.

“You meanie, you’re making me work too much,” Michael grumbled.

Teresa tried not to laugh, teasing him, “Didn’t you say you’d help with everything? A little weight is too much for you now?”

Michael plopped down on the pavement, stretching his legs out. “I’m too tired to walk, and I’m starving,” he complained.

With a smile, Teresa stopped teasing and picked up the backpack, suggesting, “How about we stop for a burger? There’s a place just up ahead.”

“Sure!” Michael cheered, bouncing back to his feet.

After they’d finished eating, Teresa and Michael started heading out when a red Toyota slowed to a stop in front of the mall. Its driver—Jennifer—stepped out, looking as if she had been waiting for them. With hands in her pockets, she greeted, “Teresa.” Teresa stopped, still holding Michael’s hand. “Dr. Nelson? It’s good to see you again.”

She lightly tapped Michael’s head and encouraged him to say hello.

“Hello,” Michael greeted.

Jennifer smiled warmly at the child, her eyes examining him briefly. He doesn’t look much like Teresa, she noted inwardly. He must take after his father. Bright eyes, double-lids, a well-formed nose, and a confident look for someone so young. Quite charming.

“I’m here to pick up some things for the holidays,” Jennifer explained. “Those facial masks you gave me last time were fantastic, and I’m almost out. Can I buy a few more boxes?”

Teresa replied, “Sure, but let me grab them from my car first. They’re in the trunk.”

Jennifer walked alongside Teresa, using the excuse of the facial masks to observe Michael more closely. He seems just over two, yet he’s already speaking so clearly and walking with confidence. Such a spirited little one.

“You should consider buying a house,” Jennifer suggested. “Living at a friend’s place with a child might give people the wrong impression.”

Teresa smiled and said, “I’m actually moving out tonight.”

Jennifer asked, “Where to? If you need help, let me know. My schedule’s open, and honestly, I don’t have many friends to hang out with.”

“Thanks, Dr. Nelson,” Teresa responded. “But I’ve already hired movers, and there’s not much to bring.”

“If you’re sure,” Jennifer responded. She stopped by a stall and bought some caramel popcorn and roasted sweet potatoes, offering them to Michael after Teresa politely declined.

“Mike,” Teresa reminded. “Say thank you to Ms. Nelson and goodbye.”

“Thank you, Ms. Nelson. Bye-bye,” Michael mimicked.

With Michael safely strapped in the child seat, Teresa started the car and drove off. Jennifer watched the car fade into the distance, her longing thoughts interrupted by a phone call, summoning her back to the hospital for emergency surgery, to which she quickly agreed.

After the successful surgery, Jennifer stood at the sink, fatigue etched into her face. Suddenly, a handkerchief appeared in her line of sight.