She beamed, her face lighting up with joy. “What nonsense! Your dad and I are always looking forward to seeing you. We don’t want to disturb you when you’re busy with work. By the way, where are Hugo and Jasper? Why didn’t they come with you?”
The moment she mentioned my husband and son, the bitterness I had fought so hard to suppress came rushing back, raw and unrelenting. It coiled in my chest, a sharp ache I could barely contain.
Sensing the shift in my expression, my mother-in-law’s brows furrowed with concern. “Did something happen? Are those two giving you trouble? Let me tell you, Audrey, you can’t just let them walk all over you. If they step out of line, don’t hesitate to hit, scold, or teach them a lesson. Don’t hold back.”
My father-in-law’s voice rumbled from the kitchen as he busied himself with the ingredients. “Your mom’s right. A man who isn’t disciplined won’t learn. If you can’t bring yourself to do it, just say the word, we’ll handle it for you.”
I hurried to explain, my voice light yet firm. “Mom, Dad, you misunderstood. Hugo treats me well. I just... can’t bear to leave you.”