Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem novel Chapter 294

"Mommy, don't go."

Elysia was taken aback by the sudden plea. Not wanting to disturb his sleep, she whispered a few soothing words and then curled up beside Elijah’s bed for the night.

...

The next morning.

When she awoke, Elijah was staring at her with his big, bright eyes, a mix of surprise and joy lighting up his face, tinged with a shy blush.

"What's up?" Elysia was intrigued.

Elijah was usually more reserved, and she had never seen this kind of childlike shyness on his face before.

Elysia sat up, "Elijah?"

He sat up too, his voice soft and childlike, "Yeah."

They looked at each other for a few seconds, and just as Elysia was about to speak, Elijah suddenly threw off the covers and got out of bed. He rummaged around the room, gathering a pile of items for her.

There were collectible toy models, little trinkets from his desk, his favorite vintage wind chime, and various rare gadgets Tarquin had given him.

"For me?" Elysia was curious.

Elijah nodded eagerly.

Elysia was surprised, "Wow!"

It was a gesture of trying to please her, and Elijah was clearly making an effort.

But why?

Elysia, oblivious to his inner turmoil, was just glad to see Elijah's mood stabilized, not as agitated as the night before.

Today, he seemed less distant and more cautious and anxious.

Without dwelling on it, Elysia asked, "Feeling better today?"

"Yeah!"

"That’s great. Children should always be happy. Since you’re up, go freshen up, and I’ll make breakfast. We can leave these gifts here, and I'll take them when I leave."

"Okay!"

Elysia smiled and headed out, with Elijah immediately on her heels. She went to the bathroom to freshen up, and Elijah followed to brush his teeth and wash his face.

When Elysia moved to the kitchen to start breakfast, Elijah was right there with her, sticking to her like glue.