Chapter 109

"Why didn't Mom buy new clothes for herself?" David tilted his head, suddenly noticing the question.

Tommy blinked his big eyes and piped up in his baby voice, "Let Dad take her shopping!" The little boy said it matter-of-factly, as if it were the most obvious solution.

In their young memories, their father often bought gifts to make their mother happy.

"We'll tell Dad when he gets home," David nodded seriously.

Though still small, the two boys had witnessed countless moments of their father doting on their mother. To them, this conversation was perfectly natural.

In the kitchen, Emily was busy kneading dough. Her grandmother had been from the north, and growing up under her influence, Emily had developed a knack for making dough-based dishes. On the cutting board, the seasoned meat filling gave off an enticing aroma.

"David, go pick some scallions from the garden," Emily called out toward the yard.

"Coming!" David answered brightly, grabbing his little brother’s hand as they dashed toward the vegetable patch. Their small figures bounced along like two happy rabbits.

Meanwhile, Michael was helping his eldest brother build a house.

"Third Brother, I heard Sister-in-law went to town today?" Daniel River asked as he carried bricks. The last time Emily had gone to town, rumors had spread that she had abandoned her children, causing quite a stir.

Michael didn’t pause in his work. "She went to buy a few things. Why, are you curious?"

"If Sister-in-law went to town, why didn’t you go with her?" Daniel lowered his voice. "The house construction can wait a little while."

Just then, Grace came skipping over, a brand-new red hair ribbon tied around her wrist. "Mom, look! Auntie gave this to me!"

Elizabeth Stone patted her daughter’s head. "Did you thank her?"

"I did! Big Sis and Second Sis got one too!" Grace lifted her chin proudly.

Nearby, Jack pouted. "I didn’t get anything..."

"You’re a boy. What do you need a hair ribbon for?" Grace retorted. "Do you see David or Tommy wearing one?"

Hearing this, Michael’s lips curled slightly. So his wife was already back—and had brought gifts for the children.

"Sister-in-law returned so soon?" Daniel said in surprise.

Michael didn’t respond, but his movements became noticeably quicker. As soon as work ended, he hurried home.

The moment he stepped into the yard, the rich scent of food wafted from the kitchen. The boys’ voices rose and fell in excitement:

"Mom, is it ready yet?"

"It smells so good..."

"Just a little longer. They’re best when golden brown," Emily’s gentle voice carried a hint of laughter.

Michael stood at the doorway, watching her bustling figure by the stove, warmth swelling in his chest. The sizzling meat pies in the pan filled the air with their delicious aroma—this was the true taste of home.