Chapter 127

Miranda returned home after five years, overwhelmed by missing her parents. She hadn't dared to return sooner. The previous year had been difficult; her parents disapproved of her boyfriend, and she wanted to become more independent before facing them. However, her return had been delayed. She’d finally decided it was time to come home.

Lionel's eyes welled. What had she done? Had Miranda been in the wrong?

Vividly, Mindy felt a tight feeling in her chest. Miranda was a proud, stubborn child, and she wouldn't admit she was wrong unless deeply hurt.

"Are youare you sure about this?" Lionel asked softly.

Miranda squeezed her hands together. "I've been sure for a long time. I justI just never dared to come home, both afraid you'd be mad at me."

She sniffled, remembering the fear and anxiety. Raising her head, she asked, "Mom, Dad, can I please stay here with you? I want to spend Christmas with you."

Lionel turned away, hiding the tears welling in his eyes. He hardened his tone. "Well, since you're back, you can stay for now."

Mindy sighed in relief. "So, are you just going to stand there? Quickly bring your suitcase inside and unpack. The food's getting cold."

Miranda wept openly at her mother's words. Smiling through her tears, she said, "Mom, Dad, I really, really missed you both so much. I've finally found my way back home."

Mindy also cried, embracing Miranda tightly. Finally, her daughter was home.

Six years had passed, but their family was complete again. They cried and hugged for a long time before calming down, having missed each other dearly.

Lionel refused to admit he'd been crying. "My conjunctivitis is really bad in winter! How could you not know that?"

Mindy rolled her eyes. Fine, let him bluff.

Tenderly stroking Miranda's swollen eyes, Mindy said, amused but slightly frustrated, "Look at you, crying so hard! And as if that wasn't enough, you made the whole family cry with you!"

Miranda, acting like a child, hugged Mindy's arm. "I haven't seen you both in a very long time, so what if I cried? What about you and Dad? Are you both well?"

Lionel answered, "Your mom and I are strong and healthy. You don't have to worry."

Miranda nodded. Lionel looked slightly older, but still fit and rosy-cheeked. Mindy also seemed in great shape; Miranda thought she could easily pass for her mid-thirties.

After crying, Miranda's eyes itched. She instinctively reached to rub them.

Mindy slapped her hand away. "How many times have I told you not to rub your eyes?"

"Lionel, get some ice for Mimi's eyes. Otherwise, they'll be swollen for days."

Lionel nodded, delighted by Miranda's return. "Alright, I'll get some."

Halfway to the kitchen, he realized, "Wait, I'm still making dinner! I'll have to cook after getting the ice"

Mindy heard him and got up. "Did you cook the fish? Didn't I tell you to let me handle it? Why do you keep messing it up? Let me see"

"Weren't you watering the plants? And we only have ingredients for three dishes. I need to get more from the supermarket"

"Don't forget the bacon," Mindy added.

"I know. Mimi loves bacon."

Miranda felt warmth as she listened to their banter. Looking out the window, she saw the sun breaking through after the rain. It was nice.