"Why did you head home so soon? Don't you still have two days left there?" I exchanged a meaningful glance with Rachelle. She parted her lips, as if deciphering my thoughts, and then signaled that we should talk later.
"Later. Heather and I need to rest first," I replied while carrying my child, who was visibly exhausted from the long trip. I took her to our room. As I laid her down on the bed, she immediately hugged me.
"I'm sad, mommy. Please, hug me."
I hugged her closely, aiming to provide solace through the embrace. Suppressing my tears, I demonstrated strength and resilience for the sake of my child.
After thirty minutes, she finally drifted off to sleep. However, with various concerns on my mind, sleep remained elusive. I rose and draped a blanket over my child to shield her
