Chapter 232: Leave Room for Grace
Deborah was aimlessly strolling through the streets when she unexpectedly bumped into Caleb, who was buying snacks at a roadside stall. At that moment, Caleb was standing in front of the stall, waiting for the vendor to finish grilling the sausages. Over the past few days, aside from instant food, he hadn’t eaten anything else. Recalling how he used to look down on grilled sausages, he thought he’d seize this opportunity to give them a taste.
To his surprise, their rich aroma was incredibly enticing. Despite his history of indulging in luxurious five-star cuisine, he found this simple meal to be just as satisfying. Every now and then, stepping outside his usual tastes wasn’t such a bad idea after all.
The street was bustling with people going about their business, none of them paying any attention to him, the man who had been the subject of widespread online ridicule. The anonymity brought a surprising sense of comfort, washing over him with relief. He only hoped he didn’t cross paths with anyone from the Quixall family.
With just one look, Deborah instantly recognized Caleb’s silhouette. “Caleb, why are you eating this junk food? It’s not hygienic. Come on, I’ll take you somewhere for a better meal.”
Caleb frowned in disgust. “What do you mean by junk food? There were times when I was so hungry, I didn’t even have this so-called junk food to eat. If anyone had offered me some potato peels back then, I would have hailed it as the finest delicacy on earth!”
With a look of guilt on her face, Deborah confessed, “It was all my fault. I must have been out of my mind to have you expelled from the Quixall family. But now karma has come full circle. Your interference threw your brother’s wedding into chaos, and soon, your sister will be gone as well. Before long, Jesse will be the only child I have left. Caleb, please come home. Let’s put the past behind us and build a better future together, okay?”
“No,” Caleb replied decisively. He had long since figured out Deborah’s true nature. Each time she hurt him, she would apologize, guilt written all over her face. Yet, when the next opportunity arose, she remained just as obstinate. When accusations needed to be made, she never hesitated to place the blame on him. So now, no matter how sincere her words sounded or how troubled she seemed, he refused to believe a single thing she said.
With a heavy heart, Caleb turned his face away, refusing to look at her. Deborah burst into tears right there on the street. “Caleb, please, I need your help. I have nowhere to stay at the moment. Could you let me stay with you for a few days? Once your dad comes to his senses, I promise I won’t trouble you anymore?”
Upon witnessing the scene, bystanders unaware of the truth started to berate Caleb. “What’s the deal with you, young man? How could you not even let your own mother into your house? Do you know how hard it was for your mother to raise you? What a disrespectful son you are!”
“Listen, young man, the universe is always watching our actions. We must leave room for grace in our lives. If you choose to welcome your mother—today, blessings will follow tomorrow. But if your wrongdoing is noticed by higher forces, you may find yourself facing the weight of divine judgment!”
“Your mother is no longer young. What if something were to happen to her while she’s out? As her son, it’s your duty to look after her. If you don’t, it’s nothing short of disrespect!”
Even the sausage stall vendor advised, “Young man, you should really take your mother home. Whatever issues you have, it’s best to discuss them at home. You won’t solve anything out here.”
Caleb had no choice but to admit defeat. “Let’s go. My place isn’t far from here. We’ll be there in no time.”
“Okay!” Deborah followed along happily, her demeanor now entirely changed from before.
The vendor called out from behind, “Do you still want your grilled sausage?” Caleb waved his hand. “No thanks, keep it for yourself.”