"There weren’t many styles to choose from at the jewelry store," she said apologetically, "but I’ll go to another one after I finish my work and find something nice for Elysia. Giving birth is like walking through the gates of hell. We shouldn’t favor one over the other."
I smiled and thanked her, though my heart grew colder.
Mom, I’m afraid Elysia won’t be able to wait for your gift.
She didn’t notice my change in demeanor, too preoccupied with her chores. With a contented sigh, she turned and walked back to the kitchen.
When Elysia returned, her arms were laden with bags of nutritional supplements.
The moment she stepped through the door, my dad forgot all about the news on TV. He stood up quickly, his usual composure replaced with urgency.
“Let me take those,” he said, hurrying over to relieve her of the bags. He placed them gently on the floor, one by one, and his voice brimmed with concern.
“How’s your recovery? Did you finish everything at the hospital? Was there traffic on the way? And why’d you buy so much? Your mom and I have everything here. Just focus on taking care of yourself… and Thaddeus and the baby. We’re fine.”
Hearing the commotion, my mom emerged from the kitchen, still wearing her apron. She awkwardly wiped her hands on it, her face lighting up.
“Elysia, you’re back? Go wash your hands first. The food will be ready soon. Thaddeus is in the bedroom watching the baby,” she said with a smile.
It’s often said that mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law are natural adversaries, but Elysia had a bond with my parents stronger than any biological daughter could claim.
Elysia smiled warmly at their concern, nodded, and headed to the bathroom to freshen up. As she walked away, my dad turned to my mom and waved her back into the kitchen.
“What are you standing here for? Get back to cooking! Everyone’s home now, and dinner’s still not ready. Don’t keep the three kids hungry.”
My mom gave him a playful glare but complied, returning to her work.
The atmosphere was warm and comforting—almost too perfect to leave behind.
In the bedroom, I opened the drawer of the bedside table and took my last dose of medicine. The bitter taste lingered as I swallowed, then stood and made my way to the living room.
As I stepped out, Elysia emerged from the bathroom. Her gaze fell on me instantly, her eyes brimming with worry.