By the time Paisley got home, she was utterly exhausted. But as she opened the door, she forced herself to summon every ounce of energy and put on a radiant smile. "Rena, Mommy's home."
"Mommy." Serena came running out of her bedroom in excitement, barefoot and ready to leap into Paisley's arms.
Paisley longed to scoop her daughter up and smother her with kisses, but having just come from the hospital, she didn't want to bring any of its lingering germs near her child. "Stop right there, and don't move," she said gently.
Serena pouted but obediently stopped in her tracks. "Mommy..."
"Be a good girl, Rena. I will take a shower and change my clothes, then I'll hug you," Paisley said softly.
Maria quickly stepped in and scooped Serena up. "Rena, let your mommy take a shower first."
While Paisley showered, Serena stayed right outside the bathroom, refusing to leave. She was like a little puppy guarding its owner, occasionally letting out small whimpers as if asking how much longer it would take.
Paisley had no choice but to shower quickly. As soon as she stepped out, Serena threw herself into her arms. Picking up her daughter, Paisley planted two big kisses on Serena's soft, rosy cheeks. All her fatigue and gloom melted away in that moment.
"You haven't eaten yet, have you?" Maria asked with a warm smile as she laid out a steaming breakfast. "Come eat quickly. You've been up all night, so get some rest after breakfast."
"Okay." Paisley felt a wave of warmth fill her heart. This was exactly what she wanted—a cozy, lively home. Honestly, her wish had always been this simple.
After breakfast, Maria urged Paisley to take a nap. Serena, being an obedient child, kept herself occupied with picture books while her mother slept. When she grew tired of reading, she went off to play with Maria.
Paisley ended up sleeping until the afternoon. When she woke up, she found Maria teaching Serena how to read. That reminded her—it was time to enroll Serena in a kindergarten.
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