After a long stretch of hard work, my efforts finally bore fruit. I had just published a new academic paper.That evening, Jane threw a celebration banquet in my honor. My colleagues had even put up a banner, creating an atmosphere brimming with energy and joy.I held the flowers Brenda and Abigail had given me, a genuine smile spreading across my face. It was the happiest day I'd had in years.As the night came to a close, I walked out of the hotel, surrounded by laughter and warm congratulations. I felt a newfound sense of freedom.But just as I stepped outside, I saw Mason and Jackson waiting there, flowers in hand. The moment Mason noticed me, he walked over quickly, a hint of unease in his eyes."Congratulations, Athena," he said."Mom, you're incredible," Jackson added, smiling.His voice was steady and sincere, as though nothing had changed between us, like the heartbreak had never occurred, and we were still the family we once were.Maybe they could pretend that nothing
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