Edward’s thoughtfulness was subtle, like a spring rain – softly nurturing my soul. I saved the photos.

That night, I picked Yvonne up after class and brought her back to my place. I cooked dinner for her myself. She was still at that age where she was growing fast, and honestly, eating out all the time just wasn’t good for her. ‘Whenever I have the time, I should really cook for her at home,’ I thought.

Yvonne came running into the kitchen and said, “Mom, I can eat spicy food now.” “Oh, really? When did you learn to handle that?” I asked, a bit surprised. ‘Back in my previous life, Yvonne was so picky about food – she couldn’t even handle a hint of spice. I always had to make her two separate dishes at every meal,’ I thought.

“Just recently. I found out spicy food actually helps me eat more,” Yvonne said, totally earnest. I chuckled. “Grandma always said I was eating spicy food before I could even walk. Where we’re from, spicy’s just how we do it.”

“Mom, you got off work so early today. Aren’t you busy anymore?” Yvonne asked. While I was tossing the veggies in the pan, I said, “I quit my job. Now I’ll have time to pick you up after class.” “What?” Yvonne stared at me in shock. “But Mom, I thought you loved working!” I smiled. “Yeah, I do enjoy working. But after I take a break, I’ll start something new.” Yvonne dashed out to call Jared – guess she wanted to hear the story about my resignation straight from him.

The next day, I dropped Yvonne off at school and got to the office a little after ten. As I arrived, I saw Quinn coming out of the building, her eyes puffy and red from crying. When she spotted me, resentment flickered in her eyes, and she turned away without saying a word. She wasn’t my sister-in-law anymore, and I didn’t have to tiptoe around her temper anymore. She ignored me, so I just went straight to the elevator.

At noon, Jared invited me to a farewell lunch, along with a few other executives from the company. After lunch, I was about to head out when Jared stopped me. “Quinn tried to confess to Nathan again yesterday, but got shot down. Nathan even called me, asking if I could do something about her. Honestly, I never thought Quinn would turn into such a hopeless romantic.” I was caught off guard, not sure what to say.

“Nathan’s into women who are soft and graceful, like you. Quinn’s way too fiery – even if she wanted to, she just can’t fake being gentle,” Jared said, a little self-mockingly. I smiled. “Well, you should comfort your sister. I can’t really help with that.” Jared seemed to realize there wasn’t much point in talking about it with me. He nodded. “If Quinn says anything harsh to you, please just let it slide, alright?” “Don’t worry. I’m not going to bite my tongue and indulge her like I used to,” I said with a smile, then turned and walked away.

It was a little after three when Edward gave me a call, asking where I was. I told him I was about to pick Yvonne up from school, and he asked if he could tag along. He wanted to meet Yvonne and join us for dinner tonight. I said yes. Since this was bound to happen sooner or later, it was better to talk things out now – it’d be better for everyone.

When Yvonne got out of class and saw Edward sitting in the car, she blinked in surprise. “Are you Nora’s dad?” I said softly, “You can call him Uncle Edward.” Yvonne nodded, looking a bit down, but she didn’t seem totally against it. Edward gave her a gift, which she accepted. After dinner, she wanted me to drop her off at Sally’s place.

After I dropped her off and got back in the car, Edward glanced at me, worry in his voice. “Is Yvonne alright? Was this all a bit too sudden for her?” A pang hit me. After all, what she did in my previous life really did leave scars on my heart. “It’s okay. She’ll get used to it,” I said, looking out into the night. “Victoria, building a family the second time around… it really does come with more challenges,” Edward said with a wry smile. I smiled too. “Yeah, that’s why we have to be extra cautious.” Edward gazed down at me, then gently wrapped his arm around my shoulders. “Don’t overthink it. And don’t put so many chains on yourself.”