I realized that I had only focused on explaining that the accident was not her fault in the car. But I had forgotten to tell her about the two elders' feelings.
I said slowly, "Do you remember what I just told you?"
Willow nodded. "Of course, I remember."
"Grandpa and Grandma were sad at that time because your mom was their biological daughter." I slowed my speech. "And she left them forever. Just like..."
I took my time, gently stroking her cheek. "Just like you must have felt a lot of pain, too."
Willow thought about what happened that day, her gaze dropping unconsciously.
I continued, "But afterward, they would definitely be grateful that you survived."
Willow stood up. "Really?"
I nodded. "Of course."
Willow joyfully spun in place. "That's great!"
I watched her and asked, "Now that you know Grandpa and Grandma have always loved and never blamed you, can you talk to them?"
Willow paused. She pondered for a while with a serious expression.
Then, she shook her head. "I still can't do that right now."
I didn't push her. "Then, there's no rush."
Willow nodded vigorously. "Okay!"
Zane had done preparing the ingredients, and the grill was scorching.
After my encouragement, Willow's mood was brighter than ever. Even though she was still little, she took the initiative to help out, eagerly adding vegetables to the grill.
She chatted with me with a grown-up demeanor, "The meat is delicious, Mommy! You need to eat more meat to be strong!"
I felt a wave of warmth as I watched her. "Yes, Willow."
Willow added shrimp to the grill. "This one is good, too, Mommy!"
I exaggerated my response. "Oh, really? Then, I must try it!"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)