“Matthew wants to stay with Mommy tonight," the boy pleaded.

Overwhelmed by tenderness, Melissa relented, and as they lay in the darkened room, she felt an enveloping warmth. She introduced the topic of Heron to Matthew, describing it as a bustling city, wondering if he'd be open to relocating.

“Mommy, what does ‘bustling’ mean?" Matthew's curiosity was evident in his gentle voice.

“It means it's a vibrant place, filled with people, cars, and towering buildings," Melissa explained, painting a picture of urban life.

Matthew blinked with confusion. "Duefron has lots of cars and people too, and I really like it here. Plus, we get snow in the winter and there's my new toy! Mommy, have you seen it?"