about that in front of me, but don’t mention it to Hank.” Mrs. Brown had concerns regarding Liberty, but for the sake of her grandson and the harmony in her son’s marriage, she felt it necessary to caution her daughter. She feared her daughter might again speak ill of her daughter-in-law to her son.
“Understood, Mom. I wonder if Lucas will cry at home,” Chelsea replied, noting that for once, she hadn’t brought her son along. Lucas had yet to recover from a viral infection of the flu, and her parents were worried that he might pass it on to Sonny if Chelsea brought him.
Mrs. Brown stated, “Your dad is there. Lucas’s fever has subsided, but his cough will take some time to clear. The flu is still contagious. We can bring him next time when he’s fully recovered.”
Chelsea pursed her lips in response, “You and Dad prefer Sonny. Lucas doesn’t have a fever now, yet you won’t let me bring him because you’re worried Sonny might catch the flu from him.”
Her mother playfully poked her in the head and admonished her, “Sonny carries the Brown name. He is the grandson of the Brown family, while Lucas has the Repton surname and belongs to your husband’s side. They cannot be compared.”
“Moreover, I’ve never cared for Sonny since his birth. I only enjoy brief playtime with him when I visit. Your dad and I have been caring for your three children since the day they were born. You should appreciate that.”
“Your brother contributes five thousand dollars a month for living expenses, and all of it goes towards your family. Your brother and his wife graciously refrain from complaining, so don’t take everything for granted. How can you claim I have favorites?”
“Lucas has viral flu. You didn’t allow him to play with his friends to prevent spreading the illness to someone else’s child. Why aren’t you concerned?”
“Are you really suggesting that your own nephew might catch it?” Chelsea held tightly to her mother’s arm and sweetly replied, “I’m sorry, Mom. I misspoke. I just don’t want to be away from Lucas. We’re only going home tomorrow, and since Lucas is still young, I feel terrible about leaving him while he’s sick.”
“Sonny is my only nephew. I love him dearly, just as I love my own son.”
“Please don’t say things like that again; it’s disheartening.”
Chelsea quickly responded, “I promise I won’t, Mom.” She understood that her parents had always been her biggest supporters.