The Unveiled Rose novel Chapter 6

Nigel's tiny hands gripped the plate on the table, and with a forceful gesture, he hurled it to the ground.

"Crash!"

The porcelain shattered, scattering pieces all over the floor. The syrup in the fruit salad splashed in every direction.

"Nigel! There's a limit to throwing a tantrum. Have you forgotten all the manners I taught you?"

My temper flared, and we locked eyes, neither willing to back down.

Nigel, not getting the reaction he sought, seemed extremely upset. He pushed me and stormed off crying, "Who needs your lessons? I hate you!"

His push wasn't strong, but it was enough to stagger me, nearly causing me to fall.

I watched Nigel's retreating figure in disbelief.

Our relationship had always been harmonious.

But given his young age and immature thinking, he could say or do the wrong things.

Although his words sometimes stung, I would explain what he did wrong after cooling down. He would reflect and understand how to correct his behavior.

Usually, at times like this, Nigel would come over, wrap his small arms around my neck, and say, "Mom, I said something wrong earlier, didn't I? That made you sad, right? I'll remember that and won't say it again."

Then he would nuzzle me with his little face.

But now?

I steadied myself against the counter, unable to control the tears streaming down my face.

Why had he changed like this?

Was it truly because of my approach to parenting?

I deeply reflected on my methods.

Perhaps I had been too strict. He was still young and couldn't understand that all I did was for his benefit.

He just felt oppressed, and Luna's reckless indulgence seemed to offer him the relaxation he craved...

Slowly, he was influenced by her. He was gradually drifting away from me and drawing closer to Luna.

If I lowered my expectations, could our relationship improve?

I took another plate from the rack.

Nigel had smashed his meal. Leander hadn't eaten yet.

Unlike usual, instead of dishing out his meal in advance, I placed an empty plate on the table and sat down beside it.

I couldn't hide my inner turmoil.

Leander sat down, noticed the empty plate, and was puzzled. "What happened?"