After the meal, Natasha and Aiden, their bellies satisfied, scampered off to their room, leaving Mindy alone in the dining room. As she turned to retreat to her room, she noticed her mother, Grace, seated on the sofa, lost in thought. The dim light in the room cast a gentle glow, emphasizing the weariness in Grace's eyes.
Mindy approached quietly and gently tapped on her mother's hand, breaking the solitude. Grace, startled by the unexpected touch, looked up to find Mindy standing beside her.
"Mom, you're not sleeping yet?" Mindy inquired, concern evident in her eyes.
Grace managed a small smile, "I was just lost in my thoughts, sweetheart. What brings you back to the living room?"
Mindy sat down beside her mother, studying Grace's expression. "You seem troubled, Mom. Is something bothering you?"
Grace, attempting to brush off her concerns, replied, "Oh, it's nothing, Mindy. Just a bit tired, that's all."
