Chapter 18 Why are you crying?

"You don't need to know about it!" Maya spoke curtly, not wanting to lose something valuable again just because someone knew its existence.

"Why doesn't Mama trust me yet? I can keep a secret well."

Maya didn't respond; instead, she turned away from Stelio. "It's late now, goodnight."

Maya Lin abruptly ended their conversation. Stelio stared at his mother's cold back. Their relationship had only recently become closer, but now he felt unhappy. "Mama, are you angry? I'm sorry for asking something I shouldn't have."

His small hand slowly hugged her waist. "Mama, don't be mad at me. I'll do anything as punishment."

"I'm not angry, go to sleep!" Maya still didn't show tenderness. Her heart was currently conflicted with her rational thoughts.

Although she didn't like being hugged by this child, Maya allowed it this time, giving the child a chance to get what he wanted.

Maya slowly released the child's hand from her waist as she felt the regular breaths behind her. She stared closely at the