Chapter 32

The car pulled up to the house, and Christine spotted Ethan peering out from his bedroom window, likely waiting impatiently for her return. The moment his eyes fell on her, he darted down the stairs and out the door, making a beeline for the car where she stood.

"Mommy!" He wrapped his arms around her legs with all the strength his small body could muster.

'So this is what pure happiness feels like!' Christine thought to herself, a surge of joy washing over her.

She scooped Ethan up into her arms, pressing a lingering kiss on his forehead. It seemed as though the scent of his hair alone had the power to erase her worries. Despite all her problems, he was her greatest blessing.

"Oh, baby, you're getting so big! I can barely lift you!" She feigned a disappointed tone.

A wide grin spread across Ethan's face, his smile revealing a few missing teeth. He had never looked more endearing, his joy radiating from his eyes.

"Yes, Mommy, I'm not a kid anymore!"

She chuckled. "I see that. I'