“Grandma, Dad often helps me make pretty pigtails,” Yvonne shared.
Aurora was skeptical until Yvonne, who cared a lot about her appearance, confirmed it. She then turned to Estelle and said, “Estelle, it seems like Cristofer is really trying to make amends for his past mistakes…”
Estelle quickly changed the subject, saying, “Mom, let’s finish up here and have breakfast.”
Aurora understood that Estelle was avoiding a deeper conversation. So much had happened between Cristofer and Estelle in the past years, and Aurora had seen how heartbroken Estelle had been during those times. She wasn’t sure whether she should encourage Estelle to reconcile with Cristofer. However, whatever decision Estelle made, Aurora would respect it.
From what she observed, Estelle and Cristofer were getting along well, but Estelle was cautious about fully opening her heart to him. On the other hand, Cristofer seemed genuinely concerned about Estelle.
****
Since they moved to Genting Garden, Eva hasn’t been going to work. Instead, she came over every day to help with grocery shopping and house chores, as if Genting Garden was her workplace, not the Hudson Group.
Vincent, a top student from a prestigious university, was even busier. He took on the role of a bodyguard in the past few days. Since Estelle wasn’t fully confident with her driving skills yet, Vincent followed her every day when she took the kids to school, ensuring their safety.
Aurora understood that Cristofer had sent these two to help protect Estelle. Estelle was well aware of it, too. Cristofer would call her every night, claiming to miss the children and wanting to chat with them. He used these opportunities to talk to Estelle as well. Sometimes, he asked about her work and other times; he asked if she was tired. While they were in regular contact, their conversations felt more like those between good friends than a couple deeply in love.
Reflecting on Cristofer and Estelle’s relationship, Aurora sighed and thought, ‘Let things unfold naturally. Young people have their own minds. If they want to, they’ll reconcile. Instead of worrying about their relationship, I should focus more on my adorable grandchildren.’ Taking care of her grandkids brought her more happiness these days.
Seeing Aurora’s slight concern, Yohan assured her, “Grandma, tying Yvonne’s hair into pigtails isn’t too hard. I can do it. Don’t worry.”
Hearing this, Aurora couldn’t help but chuckle and suggested, “How about we do it together?”
“Sure,” Yohan agreed.
Seeing the two of them working together, Estelle felt a sense of warmth and contentment. She encouraged herself silently, ‘You can do this, Estelle. You can provide your family with a good life through your own efforts.’
After breakfast, Estelle started to clear the dishes, but Aurora stopped her and offered to handle the chores herself.
“Just leave it to me. I may not be able to help with your work, but I can certainly handle the housework,” Aurora insisted.
Estelle couldn’t help but smile and playfully teased, “Mom, are you sure you can handle the housework? I remember that every time you tried to do housework before, Dad would stop you. You should rest. It won’t take me long to do the dishes.”
“Of course, I can handle it,” Aurora insisted. She put on rubber gloves, turned on the tap, and began washing the dishes. Reflecting on her past, she continued, “When your father was alive, I always relied on him for everything. I didn’t realize the importance of being independent until all these events happened. Now, I’m glad I can contribute something for you.”
Touched by her mother’s words, Estelle hugged Aurora and said, “Thank you, Mom. I’ll make sure you and the children have a good life soon.”
“I’m content with our current life, and all I want is to see you happy. Now, go ahead and take the children to school. I’ll take care of things at home,” Aurora replied with a smile.
“Alright,” Estelle agreed.
In the living room, Yohan had already prepared their school bags. When he saw Estelle, he said, “Mom, I’ve packed our school bags. Let’s go.”
Estelle affectionately patted his head and praised him, “You’ve been a big help. Well done.”
Yvonne and Christina, carrying their school bags, said simultaneously, “Mom, we’re good children too.”
Estelle smiled and praised them, “Yes, you’re all good children.” As she led them out of the house, she said softly, “Remember to listen to your teachers at school, make friends with other kids, and be safe. I’ll pick you up after school. Don’t go with strangers or accept any gifts from them.”
While driving, Estelle took the opportunity to talk to the children about safety. After dropping Yvonne and Christina off at kindergarten, she continued to drive with Yohan to his school.
“Mom, my teacher wants to meet you today,” Yohan reminded her during the drive. He was one of the top students in his class, and his teacher wanted to discuss his progress with his parents.
Estelle checked the date and realized that she had gotten the meeting date wrong. She thought it was scheduled for the next day. After parking the car at the school gate, she hurriedly adjusted her appearance. She turned to Yohan and asked, “Do I look okay?”
Yohan reassured her, “You look great, Mom. You’re the most beautiful mom among all my classmates. No one can compare to you.”
Amused by his sincerity and serious expression, Estelle couldn’t help but smile. She said, “You are so good at speaking sweet words.”
Yohan proudly replied, “I take after Dad.”
Estelle chuckled and remarked, “Your Dad is not as sweet-tongued as you.”
Curious, Yohan asked, “Not sweet-tongued? Does that mean Dad’s words aren’t sweet? No wonder he always kisses your lips. Your lips must taste sweet.”
Estelle was speechless with surprise when hearing this. When she was about to change the topic, she felt something wrong and thought in confusion, ‘When Cristofer and I were passionately in love, Yohan hadn’t been born. When did Yohan see Cristofer kiss me?’
“When did you see your Dad kiss me?” Estelle asked, surprised by Yohan’s revelation.
“When we lived in Dad’s house!” Yohan replied matter-of-factly. “Every night after you fell asleep, Dad would kiss you.”
Estelle’s eyes widened in shock as she asked, “How did you know that?”
“I saw it! I can see your bedroom through the window of mine,” Yohan answered.
Estelle was first stunned and then a little annoyed upon hearing this. However, she quickly decided to end this topic by saying, “Yohan, don’t tell anyone about it, okay?”
Yohan nodded in agreement. They then proceeded to the teacher’s office. Yohan’s class teacher greeted Estelle with a compliment, saying, “Mrs. Hans, you are so young and beautiful. No wonder Yohan is so handsome. It turns out that he takes after you.”