At eight-thirty that evening, Stewart returned to Sunset Ridge Villas.
Irwin had just finished his homework. Hearing the familiar sound of the car in the driveway, he looked up at Jeannie and asked, "I think Dad's home, isn't he?"
"That's right." Jeannie smiled, ruffling his hair. "Let's go down and say hi to your father."
"Okay!"
As Irwin and Jeannie made their way downstairs, Stewart was already settled on the sofa.
"Dad!" Irwin dashed over to him.
Stewart paused in the middle of rubbing his temples, then looked up at Irwin and offered a faint smile. "Done with your homework?"
"Yep!" Irwin frowned with concern. "Dad, is something wrong? Did work tire you out again?"
"I'm fine." Stewart patted the seat next to him. "Come sit with me for a while."
Irwin nodded and took a seat beside his father.
Jeannie walked over, her voice warm with cheer. "Mr. Wentworth, I made some nourishing soup in the kitchen. I'll bring some out for you and Irwin to have before bed."
Stewart pinched the bridge of his nose again and gave a soft hum of acknowledgment.
Jeannie turned and headed to the kitchen, humming contentedly to herself.
"Dad, when are Mom Bryn and my little sister coming home?" Irwin asked.
Stewart looked at him, reached out to gently stroke his hair, but didn't answer the question. Instead, he asked, "Did you get tired doing your homework?"
"It was alright. Isn't that just how it goes for kids in grade school?"
Stewart gazed at him, his eyes clouded with emotion.
The last time—because of Rosita—Stewart had raised his voice at Irwin for the first time. The next day, after he'd calmed down, he'd felt deeply regretful.
That evening, when he came home, he'd brought Irwin a small gift, planning to make amends.
But to his surprise, Irwin had come to him first, apologized, and promised that he wouldn't see Rosita again.
Irwin's thoughtfulness only made Stewart feel guiltier.
He knew that Irwin had found the courage to apologize largely thanks to Jeannie's guidance.
But Stewart was also painfully aware of Irwin's lack of security; his son was a sensitive child.
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