Mom looked at me with a soft gaze and a smile that never left her face. Even while we had breakfast, she didn't want to be far from me. I was so happy when Mom hugged me and kissed my cheek.
What I used to find annoying, I now deeply missed. Our life was simple, nothing fancy. Even though I had been sickly in the past, being with Mom was the most comforting thing.
"I'm not going to work today," Mom said after sipping her coffee. "I'm staying home with you."
I chuckled. "I'm not going anywhere, Mom. I'm here now—I'm home."
I could sense that Mom was anxious and probably wanted to ask me something. But I knew she was holding back. Maybe she was afraid I'd run away again. What parent wouldn't panic when the police show up, and their child suddenly disappears on the same night?
"I know. I
