After they returned, Anthony and Benjamin were silent for a long time when Natasha announced that she was returning home.
Although they knew this day would come sooner or later, they felt it was too soon.
“Nat, are you not going to stay here for a few more days?” Anthony queried Natasha after much deliberation.
Natasha responded, “Yes. My grandfather will be worried if I stay any longer.”
Anthony pondered for a long moment. “Nat, what about us?”
Natasha kept mum as she looked at them.
Anthony continued, “Nat, we have thought about it. Benjamin and I will return to Darknetz with Thalia and undergo training there.”
Natasha knew about that matter for a while, but she had put it on the back burner since she was so focused on returning home.
Now that Anthony brought up this matter, she finally remembered this.
Natasha queried, “Have you thought it through?”
Anthony and Benjamin nodded fervently.
After giving it some thought, she said, “Okay, I understand.”
“Nat, you are agreeing to this without much consideration,” Anthony stated.
“I've been thinking about it and preparing for this day since I learned about your involvement with Darknetz. Since you have made up your mind, I'll respect your decisions,” Natasha replied as she studied them.
“Nat...” Anthony's eyes reddened. He was the most mature of the three children, but he was the first to become emotional at that moment.
Furthermore, Anthony was no longer someone who kept his emotions to himself all the time. He had been attempting to express himself more effectively.
He walked over and buried his head into Natasha's arms. “Nat, I'm regretting this decision suddenly. I can't bear to separate from you...”
Upon hearing that, Natasha grinned. “Then, why don't you stay by my side forever? When you grow up, I'll help you find a wife. What do you think?”
Anthony raised his head and muttered begrudgingly. “Nat, can you not ruin the atmosphere?”
Natasha smiled. She raised her hand to gesture at Benjamin to come over.
With Anthony and Benjamin standing in front of Natasha, she stated, “I must admit I never imagined that you two would join Darknetz at such a young age. Deep down, I wish for you guys to live normal lives. Then, I won't need to be so worried about you guys. However, I'm aware that each of you is a brilliant individual with your ambitions and views, nevertheless. So long as you act with integrity, I'll support you regardless of what you do.”
The two nodded, as they listened to her.
“Also, don't worry about our parting or even me. Simply put, you guys are leaving me earlier than expected. Don't worry. I will not feel bored while you guys aren't here. You don't have to worry about me because I still have to work, take care of Gramps, and go dating,” Natasha articulated each word calmly.
Natasha really had the ability to comfort others.
Although she had an ineloquent nature and had trouble expressing herself, she never stopped herself from doing so when educating her children. Her words struck a chord with them and successfully put them to ease.
Anthony and Benjamin felt a lot better, hearing her words. Their concerns had been assuaged.
“We understand, Nat,” Anthony said.
Natasha stared at them and beamed warmly.
At that moment, Denise harrumphed.
Hearing the commotion, the three of them looked in the direction of the sound and saw Denise pouting.
“What's the matter?” Natasha asked.
“Nat, you are hugging Ben and Tony because they are leaving. I'm still by your side, but you don't care about me anymore.” Denise was jealous.
Everyone laughed upon hearing that.
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