Picking Up the Pieces

*Naska*

Naska carried the tray with ease thanks to repetitive practice over the years. It was not even a thought for her to ever worry about dropping it at this point. But Naska couldn’t help but throw a worried glance over to the little boy beside her more than once.

“Careful, honey.” Naska again stopped to shift a cup from the ledge. It was a good thing she checked for the umpteenth time. Naska patted herself on the back for being so wise.

“Yes, Mama.” Bruno bowed his head with a gentle voice. The boy was sweet and quiet—not that he was ever a loud boy—but still, Naska felt proud to have such a well-behaved son.

“After this, we’ll go see your grandpa and grandma.” Naska went quickly, like many times before. But this time, Bruno had to stop with a pout.

“Why?”Bruno clenched the tray to him as he looked down.

“Why?” Naska looked back with surprise. Since when did Bruno ever question her? “So you can tell them what you heard when that big lady was with her Empress.” Obviously. Why else