My son is my pride and joy. Ive raised him to be a truly good mankind and compassionate. After my husband passed away, he was my only support. Then he told me he was leaving for work. No matter how anxious I felt, I couldnt keep him tied to my apron strings.
What about your Emily? I asked Thomas about his girlfriend. Its over between us, she betrayed me.
I was surprised, of course, since Emily was such a lovely young woman. They looked wonderful together. It was a pity they broke up, but I respected their choicesI never interfered in my sons affairs.
Thomas called me oftenthe bond between us never faded. He quickly got used to his new surroundings and found a good job. Soon enough, he had a new girlfriend, and he wanted to marry her. Yet, he didnt rush home. To fill the emptiness, I adopted a kitten and started doting on it.
One day, I heard a timid voice at the door: Hello!
It was Emily, my sons ex-girlfriend.
What are you doing here, dear? Thomas isnt home! And whose child is that? Come inside, lets talk. Shes Thomass daughter We argued and I was frightened to tell him the truth. After giving birth, I lived with my parents in the country. But then, they passed away. This little one shouldnt have to live in a crumbling house. I considered placing her in a nursery, but decided to see you first. So youd know about her, and maybe take her in if anything happened to me. No need for tears. Well work something out. You stay here with me, and well see how things go.
Emily hugged me and began to cry. It felt rightI had the chance to brighten her loneliness and watch my granddaughter grow. The little girl impressed me with her cleverness, and Emily always helped around the house. My granddaughter was the spitting image of Thomas, so I had no doubt about Emilys story.
All was well until Thomas decided to come home. From our conversation, I sensed hed had a falling-out with his fiancée and was returning alone. Odd as it may sound, I was actually relieved. I didnt tell Emily about his arrivalI didnt want to startle her.
When I opened the door, I was taken abackmy son was holding a small child. My granddaughter was asleep in my arms.
Mum, whos this? Thomas smiled warmly. Shes your daughter. Really? He was surprised. And whos with you? I asked. This is your grandson, David. His mother died in childbirth, and I couldnt abandon him.
Just then, Emily appeared in the hallway. She and Thomas stared at each other, silent, for a long moment. I decided not to intrudeI went off to prepare lunch.
Eventually, everything settled. Thomas and Emily got engaged, raising both children together. Now my son is building a house in the suburbs, since were tired of squeezing into a tiny flat. I feel so proud of my familynot everyone is fortunate enough to experience this. Its true what they say: family really is the most precious thing we have.
