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Novel Catalog
Chapter 53
Eden watched as Ricky, now looking more refreshed and full of life, skipped to the table and took a sip of the warm water she had prepared. A small, content smile played on his lips as he glanced up at her, his wide eyes still sparkling with innocence and pride.
“Mom,” he said, his voice soft and full of affection, “I’m really glad we’re together like this. I’m glad I can be here for you.”
Eden’s heart fluttered at his words. She couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude wash over her, but also a pang of guilt. She had tried so hard to shield her children from the world, to make sure they never felt burdened by her struggles, but Ricky’s sincerity and understanding always hit her right in the heart.
She walked over and knelt down to his level, cupping his little face in her hands. “You’ve already done so much, Ricky. Just being you is enough. You make me so proud every day.” She kissed his forehead tenderly, her voice thick with emotion. “I’m the lucky one, my sweet boy.”
Ricky’s cheeks flushed with a mix of pride and shyness as he looked up at her, his small arms wrapping around her neck for a hug. “I love you, Mommy,” he whispered into her ear.
Eden closed her eyes for a moment, savoring the warmth of his hug, feeling her heart swell. This was all that mattered. Her children, their love, their growth. Nothing could replace this feeling.
When she pulled away, Ricky was already back to his energetic self, bouncing around the room. “Can we go to the supermarket now, Mommy? I’m starving!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with excitement.
Eden laughed softly, wiping away a stray tear from her cheek before nodding. “Of course, we’ll get some food. Let’s make it a fun little outing, just the two of us.”
As they left the apartment, walking toward the corner supermarket, Eden couldn’t help but feel a warmth spread through her. It wasn’t just the love of her son; it was the feeling of hope, of knowing that no matter how tough things got, they would get through it together. They had each other, and that was more than enough.
The night air was cool and crisp, and as they walked side by side, Eden noticed Ricky’s small hand holding tightly onto hers. She squeezed it gently, making a silent promise to him, to herself, and to all three of her children: she would do whatever it took to build a better life for them. They would have that home, that stability, the life they deserved.
And even if it meant carrying the weight alone for now, she would make sure they never felt alone. Ricky’s faith in her was all she needed to keep going.
As they reached the store, Ricky’s excited chatter about all the snacks and treats he wanted filled the air. Eden let him pick out a few small things—things she would never have been able to afford before. But now, with the work she had put into her life and her career, there was a little room for joy, even in the smallest things.
Together, they were building a life, one small moment at a time.