Chapter 77: Bribe??
The warm morning sunlight poured through the windows, casting golden streaks across the breakfast table. The smell of toasted bread, scrambled eggs, and Elena’s special cinnamon pancakes filled the air. Hope was humming as she drizzled too much syrup on her pancakes, and Asher was focused on stacking his toast like a tower. Daniel, still in his home robe, stirred his tea, while Elena wiped Asher’s mouth and took her seat beside him.
Miles sat across the table, dressed in a black T-shirt and loose joggers, casual for once, though his posture still carried the quiet discipline of someone who had lived in war zones. He was watching his family—really watching—absorbing every second.
Then he spoke, his voice gentle yet purposeful. "Mom... have you ever thought about getting a new house?"
The question made the air shift slightly. Elena’s hand paused mid-reach toward the butter, and Daniel set down his spoon. Their eyes met—briefly, a silent exchange of memories, regrets, and once-shelved dreams.
Miles immediately caught it. "Is there something? You can tell me," he said, setting down his glass of water.
Elena gave a soft sigh and offered a fragile smile. "After Hope and Asher were born, we... we did start saving up. For a bigger place. Not that there’s anything wrong with this house," she said, her fingers gently brushing Hope’s hair. "But you know... kids grow up. We just thought, maybe a little more space... a little garden, maybe a room for each of them. That sort of thing."
Daniel took over where she left off. "But then I fell sick... And all of it, every rupee we saved, went into treatments, hospital bills. We never said anything because..."He hesitated, then smiled faintly. "We didn’t want the kids to feel like they were missing out."
Miles looked at both of them. Something stirred in his chest—a blend of guilt and resolve. "It’s okay, Mom. Father. Don’t think about any of that now."
Elena looked up, blinking. "Miles—"
"No," he cut in softly. "I’m here now. With you. Let me do something for this family."
Elena’s eyes welled up slightly. "You really don’t have to—"
"What are you talking about, Mom?" he said, his tone suddenly firm but still warm. "It’s my responsibility. You took care of me when I was small. Now it’s my turn to take care of you. Of all of you."