As my mother started to retreat from the kitchen, my smile waned. Without allowing her to depart, I halted her with a plea, "Wait, before you go, I need to ask you a favor, Mom..."
Turning around, my mother acknowledged my interruption with a quizzical expression, "Yes?" She graciously took a seat beside me at the kitchen table, a warm smile accompanying her inquiry.
I couldn't help but feel a twinge of nervousness as I shifted my gaze downward to the table's surface. Summoning the courage to voice my request, I murmured, "Can I ask you for some money, mom?"
My mother's gaze remained on me, her gentle eyes prompting a reminder, "Dionis, when seeking a favor, it's important to make eye contact." She then asked, "Why do you need the money?"
I lifted my head, meeting her gaze directly. "I want to travel to Germany," I explained earnestly, "My friend Eman has invited me to attend his karate championship, and I really don't want to miss this opportunity."
