Chapter 115

The autumn sunlight streamed through the window as Emily Johnson gazed at the tall man before her, his strong hand gripping hers tightly.

"It's time to get to work," she reminded him softly, her pulse quickening at the warmth of his touch.

Michael Stone's deep eyes brimmed with tenderness, making her cheeks flush. How does he keep getting more handsome? she thought to herself.

"Sweetheart..." His low voice carried a hint of playful pleading.

"Go!" She feigned sternness, glaring at him, unaware how endearing she looked.

Suddenly, Michael leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to the back of her hand. The warmth of his lips sent a shiver through her.

"You—!" She yanked her hand away, flustered.

The man grinned like a fox who'd gotten his way. "I'm off. I'll cook for you tonight."

"Who asked you to cook..." she muttered under her breath, but he had already turned away.

"Oh, and," his expression turned serious, "don't even think about helping out. Stay home and study."

Emily raised an eyebrow. "I—"

"No." His tone was firm. "Building is dirty, exhausting work. I can't bear to see you tired."

The bluntness of his words made her ears burn.

Michael walked away, glancing back every few steps as if they were parting for good.

"Just go already!" She finally burst out laughing.

Only after the gate closed behind him did Emily exhale deeply. That man... he's getting too good at this.

She tiptoed to the children's room and pushed the door open.

"Mommy!" Two little bundles wriggled out from under the covers, their eyes bright.

"Can't sleep?" she asked softly.

"Nope!" Tommy nodded vigorously. "Wanna play outside!"

Emily helped them into their new vests. "It's chilly—don't go too far."

The boys cheered and dashed out, their excited chatter soon filling the yard.

"David, your new clothes are so cool!"

"My mom bought them!" David's proud voice rang out.

Emily was about to head back inside when a shrill child's voice cut through the air:

"Your mom's a city girl. She'll go back one day and leave you behind!"

Her heart clenched.

"That's not true!" David's voice trembled. "Mommy would never leave us!"

"Yeah!" Tommy chimed in. "Daddy said she'll take us with her!"

The other child persisted. "She won't even want your daddy!"

Emily's fists tightened, her nails digging into her palms. Who taught these kids to say such things?