"Mom, I received a call from Miss Sophia today. The Janqash royal family invited Sofia and me to perform at their celebration. I've agreed to do it."
"You're leaving to perform?"
Stefania was stunned, immediately shooting Tessa a look of disagreement. "You have yet to fully recover. How can you perform?"
"My body is fine now," Tessa smiled as she explained.
She knew Stefania was only worried about her.
Stefania still did not agree with the decision. "Even if you're in full health, Gordon is so young."
"That's not a problem, Mom."
Nicholas took over explaining and defended Tessa. "I said that none of these will be reasons to tie Tessa down. I will support her no matter what she wishes to do."
Stefania did not know what to say to that.
She went quiet. It was evident that she still did not want Tessa to perform at all.
Seeing that, Tessa turned to shoot Nicholas a helpless look.
He looked at her reassuringly before continuing to say, "I know you're worried about the children. Don't worry. We will be going with her. I won't separate the boys from their mother."
Upon hearing that, Stefania knew that there was nothing she could say to sway their decision.
"Enough. I know you've made up your mind. I'll accept it."
"You're the best, Mom!"
Tessa happily cheered.
Stefania burst out chuckling when she saw how overjoyed Tessa was. Then, she wiped the smile off her face as she sternly said, "While I have agreed to let you do this, I have a condition."
"I'll agree to anything you want."
Tessa did not even hesitate before saying that.
Stefania glanced at her before stating, "I want you two to take care of the children, especially Gordon. He is at the age when he needs to be cared for by someone the most."
"Don't worry. We'll take good care of them."
Nicholas made the promise as he held Tessa's hand.
Stefania heaved a sigh when she saw their response. When she next spoke, she sounded like she was somewhat sulking and reluctant to let them leave.
"I can forgive you for leaving, but you're taking the children away from me as well. My days will be so cold and lifeless."
Nicholas and Tessa exchanged a look. They were at a loss for words.
Fortunately, Gregory moved over to comfort Stefania. "It'll be fine, Grandma. Once we're there, Gordon and I will call you every single day. You'll be able to see us all the time!"
His kind words made Stefania smile once more as warmth filled her heart.
She tenderly pulled him into his arms. "Gregory is still the best. You are so good to Grandma."
"Of course! You love me, and I love you too, Grandma!"
Gregory continued to reassure her.
Soon, Stefania was all cheered up.
For the next few days, Nicholas was busy sorting out work arrangements.
On the day of the flight, Kieran and Timothy went to the airport to see them off.
"Look after the company. Contact me if you need anything," Nicholas instructed Kieran.
"Don't worry."
Kieran nodded.
Meanwhile, Timothy was saying his goodbyes to Tessa.
"Take good care of yourself. Don't push yourself too hard in practice. Pay attention to your body."
"I know. Take care of yourself as well. Don't overwork yourself every single day. Spend more time with Sabrina."
Tessa had instructions for her brother as well due to worry.
Soon, it was time for them to board their flight. It was only then that they parted ways.
Finally, after over ten hours, Tessa landed in Janqash and reunited with Sofia and the others.
Immediately after leaving the airport, Nicholas and Tessa headed straight over to the place they would be meeting Sofia.
"Sofia."
Tessa happily shouted out in greeting after stepping out of the car.
"Hello, Granny Sofia," Gregory obediently greeted.
"Hello, Greg."
Sofia tenderly stroked Gregory's head. When she looked up to find Nicholas walking over with Gordon in his arms, she was stunned.
She had truly not expected a man as high and mighty as Nicholas would personally take care of his children.
At that sight, she smiled at him. "Tessa is so lucky to have a husband like you."
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