“Mom...”

As she drifted into a daze, a familiar voice stirred her from slumber.

Opening her eyes, she beheld Joe, his gaze fixed upon her with innocence and longing.

She then reached out to caress his head.

"Would you like to sleep with mommy?" Camila asked tenderly.

Joe shook his head. "I'm not sleepy yet."

Camila's lips curved into a smile. With gentle fingers, she pinched his soft cheek and inquired, "Are you planning to keep an eye on Mommy while I sleep?"

“can you play with me?" Joe asked.

How could she resist such an adorable boy? She lifted the quilt, rose from the bed, and scooped him up into her arms. “What shall we play, darling?"

Joe pondered, tilting his head.

Rowena approached and noticed Camila holding Joe, so she asked, “Has your waist stopped hurting?"

Camila expressed, "It's painful," while maintaining a smile.

Setting down the ginger tea with brown sugar, Rowena inquired, "Then why persist in holding him? Aren't you aware of Joe's current weight? Clearly, you're not experiencing sufficient discomfort."

Attending to her daughter's needs, Rowena gently removed Joe from Camila's arms.

"You'll embrace your son once you're feeling better." Rowena assured as she carried Joe downstairs. "Remember to drink the tea."

Joe, displeased, pouted, “Grandma, you're being so bothersome."

Rowena playfully rubbed his nose and soothed, “Behave. Your mom isn't feeling well. When she's recovered, she'll spend time with you."

"But Mom can still lift me. What's wrong with her? She's even smiling at me. You're lying to me." Joe protested, kicking his legs.

“Put me down."

Rowena complied, setting him on the floor.