77

In the soft morning light, Rose dropped off her smart little son, Tristan, at school. As she parked the car near the school gate, they engaged in a meaningful conversation about his father. That's when Rose understood she can't escape this forever.

"Mommy, when is Daddy coming back from his trip? I miss him," Tristan asked with a hint of sadness in his voice.

Rose paused for a moment, feeling a pang of guilt. "Daddy is still on his trip, sweetheart. I'm not sure when he'll be back, but I promise you, he loves you very much."

Tristan looked at her with innocent eyes. "But I want to see Daddy. Why is he always away?"

Gently, Rose explained, "Sometimes grown-ups have important things to take care of, and they have to go away for a while. But no matter what, I'm here for you, and I love you more than anything in the world."

Tristan seems to not be happy still. He didn't want to make his mother sad so he tried to smile.

"It's okay Mommy. I understand. I'll be going now. Bye mommy!"

"