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The Invitation

Author: Janice Jay
last update Last Updated: 2025-02-09 05:57:08

Noah sat across from Mama, his hands clasped together. He had rehearsed this conversation in his head a hundred times, but now that he was here, the words felt heavier than he expected.

Finally, he exhaled and said, “I’ve made a decision, Mama.”

Mama, who had been leisurely sipping her tea, paused and met his gaze. “Oh?”

“I’m joining the AirForce,” Noah said, forcing the words out. “Training starts soon.”

Mama’s eyes widened, but then a warm smile spread across her face. “Oh, my boy… I’m so proud of you.”

His shoulders relaxed. “You are?”

“Of course, I am,” she said, reaching for his hands. “This is big, Noah. It takes courage to follow your path. I know you’ll do well.”

Noah exhaled, relieved. He had expected her to worry, maybe even try to talk him out of it. But she understood. She always did.

“I just…” She studied him carefully. “I have to ask you something.”

He raised a brow. “What is it, Mama Bear?”

She sighed before speaking again. “Leah.”

Noah’s expression faltered for a split
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