As they settled in, Edwin broached the topic of his future aspirations with his mother. Cecilia, engrossed in her flowers, paused upon hearing the news.

“I promise, I'll visit at least twice annually," Edwin reassured.

“It's just six or seven years abroad."

Cecilia arranged the flowers in the vase, lost in her thoughts.

After a moment, she murmured, "When you chose to stay in Duefron, I was supportive. It's close, and your grandparents and uncle are there to look after you. We could visit anytime. But leaving the country for years? Edwin, your father's years are advancing, and so are Zoey's."