[ZACH]
“Son…”
Mum cupped my face gently, her eyes softening. I held her hand against my cheek, wishing just for once, she wouldn’t leave.
“Remember what I told you, son. Our country’s future rests on your shoulders, and your choice of a partner plays a major role in that. Please, promise me you won’t disappoint us. It’s better we arrange a bride for you from our homeland than have you bring in a foreigner who doesn’t value our people and culture.”
I sighed, my grip tightening around her hand. “Mum, I understand your concerns. I have them too, you know. That’s why I’m taking my time. But I need more of it. The New Year is just a week away, and I still haven’t made a decision.”
She studied me for a moment before nodding. “It’s okay. I’ll talk to your father about extending the deadline,
