Chapter 271

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“ Hey , I see you . My car’s right behind you .” Benny’s voice rang out again , loud and playful .
A car horn blared , catching Edward and the tipsy Miriam’s attention . Benny pulled up in the flashy red sedan , parked , turned on the hazard lights , and stepped out with a grin .
“ Well , well , if it isn’t Donald . ” Benny teased , his gaze landing on the boy helping Miriam with her bag . “ What are you doing here ? And how did Miriam end up this smashed ? ” Edward was about to explain for what felt like the millionth time that he wasn’t Donald when Miriam suddenly threw her arms around his neck . She patted his shoulder protectively , her drunken bravado on full display .
“ His name’s Ed – ward . The one and only . If you mess it up again , I’ll knock you into next week , ” she slurred , her words fierce but hilariously wobbly .
Her eyes fluttered shut , and she went limp . Edward instinctively tightened his hold on her waist to keep her steady . For a moment , he found himself staring at her peaceful face , a strange warmth spreading through his chest , leaving him momentarily stunned . Benny shook his head with a helpless smile . “ You two are such a pair of lovebirds . Alright , I’m out . I’m heading to Lonisburg solo . Dude , take care of her . ”
Edward nodded , his grip on Miriam’s waist firm . “ Got it . ”
Michael had been feeling under the weather ever since arriving in Everport . After days of dealing with his upset stomach , Teresa decided to take him to a nearby hospital . The doctor !
him a kid – friendly shot and prescribed a mix of medications .
The doctor explained that Michael’s frequent moves had made it hard for him to adjust to new environments . On top of that , his recent diet was too much for his young . digestive system to handle . He advised Teresa to stick to light , simple meals for Michael .
“ I understand , ” Teresa said , guilt weighing on her . Michael had been following her from place to place , and she’d indulged him by letting him eat whatever he wanted . No. wonder his stomach was upset .
Taking Michael’s hand , she gently said , “ No more fried chicken or soda for now , okay ? We need to take care of your tummy . ”
“ Mom , does that mean I can’t eat any meat at all Michael asked , his voice tinged with disappointment .
Successfully unlocked !
“ I bought some pork chop . I’ll cut off a small piece for you , ” Teresa reassured him .
“ Alright , ” Michael muttered , nibbling on his gruel and the tiny piece of pork chop
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Teresa had given him . She didn’t let him have much , though , and instead cooked some carrots for him .
“ Be good , okay ? If you eat properly for the next few days , I’ll take you on a trip next week ,” Teresa promised , hoping to cheer him up .
“ Really ? ” Michael’s eyes lit up with excitement , though he still seemed a little skeptical . “ Will you really take me to see Candy Castle this time ? ”
Teresa chuckled . Michael had been fixated on visiting Candy Castle ever since their last trip to Jarisburg , where they hadn’t managed to see it . “ Yes , I’ve already planned the route . First , we’ll go to Silvar , and then we’ll head to Jarisburg . ”
“ Yay ! ” Michael’s little hands clapped together in excitement , his face lighting up with joy . Then , after a moment’s pause , he asked , “ Mom , after the trip , are we going back to Nareigh ? ”
“ Do you want to go back ? ” Teresa asked , watching him closely .
Michael hesitated before replying , “ I’m scared Jennifer will yell at you again , but I really miss Mr. Lime . ” His voice dropped to a whisper , tinged with sadness .
Teresa missed the part about Mr. Lime but caught his worry about Jennifer . Without Jennifer around , life had become peaceful and warm – no more walking on eggshells , no more fear of being scolded for every little mistake .
Even Michael seemed more relaxed now , no longer tiptoeing around or holding his tongue out of fear . Teresa stroked his cheek gently and said , “ We’re not going back , sweetie . You don’t have to worry . ”
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