Annabelle's face softened as she saw her son, her work instantly forgotten. "Hi, baby," she greeted warmly, lifting him up and settling him on her lap. She peppered his face with kisses, tickling him gently as she did. His laughter filled the room, a sound that always managed to melt her heart.
Karen giggled, squirming in her arms. "Mommy, stop! Wait!" he said between fits of laughter.
Annabelle paused, her smile never fading. "What is it, Karen? Are you hungry?" she asked, her tone affectionate.
Karen shook his head vigorously, his expression growing more serious as he remembered his mission. "I'm not hungry, Mommy. Call Uncle Eddy he said you should call him," he said, holding out the business card that Edwards had given him.