Chapter 250
When Elijah heard the word “mom,” his expression turned noticeably gloomy.
“Didn’t you say there was news about Mom? When is she coming back p>
Tarquin’s brow furrowed slightly as he fibbed, “She’s been held up by other matters. It’ll be a little while longer before she can return p>
“Did she tell you that p>
“Um… yeah p>
“Does she not like me p>
“What? No, of course, she likes you p>
“Does she not miss me p>
“She does miss you p>
“Then she must not miss me that much,” Elijah said, a hint of hurt in his voice, before turning his gaze out the window. His little face scrunched up, looking wounded.
If she really missed him, she’d have come to see him at the first chance. What could possibly be more important than seeing him?
Tarquin knew what Elijah was thinking and it pained him.
Every time this topic came up, he couldn’t help but resent her. How could she leave her son like this, not care for so many years, not even want to check in on him?
Even if she was angry about what happened back then, what fault did their son have?
Tarquin grumbled in his heart but insisted out loud, “No mother doesn’t love her child. She must have her reasons for leaving. Let’s give her some more time. I believe she will come back, and I believe she loves you p>
After a moment of silence, Elijah asked, “What kind of person is mommy p>
“She’s Tarquin sighed, “very gentle, tears up easily, like a kitten when she cries p>
Elijah frowned, “Why would she cry in front of you? Did you always make her upset?” Tarquin choked on his words.
Elijah continued, “What does she look like when she smiles p>
Tarquin was stumped – he didn’t know.
But he couldn’t say that to his son. He had to make something up, “When she smiles, it’s like the sunshine, or a blooming flower… just like when Elysia smiles p>
Elijah looked out the window again, falling silent.
“You have to believe love is mutual. You love her so much, and she surely loves you too. You miss her, and she’s definitely missing you as well.” Tarquin said those words as much to comfort his son as to reassure himself. He missed her, hoping she missed him just as much.
After a brief silence, Tarquin changed the subject.
“Elijah, in a few days, it’s the Bradford family’s annual commemoration day. We’ll be going up to the hill to pay our respects p>
“I’m not going,” Elijah said without hesitation.
Tarquin wasn’t surprised by his response but insisted, “It’s a requirement for everyone. Your grandfather would want to see you too. It’s not just about honoring them; it’s about remembering your grandfather as well p>
Elijah’s little brow furrowed deeply.
Tarquin knew he disliked such events but continued, “This year is different. You’re turning five, and according to tradition, you’ll have to pay respect to our ancestors on your own, get to know each of them, and even prepare a speech to give in front of everyone p>
Elijah turned to Tarquin, his voice firm and cold, “I’ll only pay respect for Grandpa p>
That was his compromise. Tarquin knew this was his limit.
He wanted to say more, but Elijah suddenly got up and left the room, heading to the bathroom.
Tarquin watched him go, his expression gloomy. He knew Elijah wouldn’t agree.
If it weren’t for Elysia insisting he announce Elijah was well, he could have avoided the other traditions. Now, he had no excuse to skip them.