Chapter 160

"This business trip might take a while, but I'll be back before the New Year," Michael Stone said softly.

Before the New Year?

"Bring back some local specialties," Emily Johnson mused.

Truthfully, she could buy anything on PennyDeals. But preservative-laden products could never compare to authentic, fresh goods.

Like free-range eggs—fried to a perfect golden hue. Or the rich aroma of home-raised chicken soup, something impossible to find in the twenty-first century.

She remembered her senior year of high school when her mother drove hundreds of miles just to get her real farm-raised chicken for nourishment.

"That's all?" Michael sounded surprised.

"Mhm." Emily nodded. "Don’t buy me clothes or shoes. Just bring some books for the kids."

That cashmere coat from last time was nice, but unnecessary.

Michael’s chest tightened. "You didn’t like it?"

"It’s not that I didn’t—" Before she could finish, warmth pressed against her lips.

"You—!" Her eyes widened.

"What? I’m kissing my own wife," Michael grinned like a cat that got the cream.

Emily’s ears burned as she playfully swatted at him.

"Sweetheart, read your book. I’ll stay with you," Michael quickly changed the subject.

"Let go!" She shook off his wandering hand.

That afternoon, Mary Stone came over to help stew a pot of soybeans and pork intestines, the savory scent filling the yard.

After dinner, Michael eagerly cleared the dishes. "I’ll handle this!"

The two little ones trotted after him, eager to help.

"Daddy, I can help Mommy!" Little David puffed out his chest.

"Me too!" Tommy chimed in, not to be outdone.

Michael ruffled their hair. "Good boys. I’ll bring you treats when I get back."

Standing at the kitchen doorway, Emily watched the three of them bustling about, a soft smile tugging at her lips.

Outside, the setting sun cast its final golden glow across the yard—warm and serene.