Chapter 102

Julia knew what Elaine was doing, but her relationship with Xavier could never return to what it once was. While he was still young, she wanted him to gradually get used to days without a mother. "Mommy…" Xavier, looking small and delicate, tilted his head up at her. His eyes were filled with longing. In the past, Julia had never been able to resist that expression. Over time, she had come to realize that it was one of Xavier's tricks to get whatever he wanted from her. When she didn't respond, his lips jutted out in a pout, and he turned that pitiful gaze toward Elaine instead. "Lia, you've had a long day, and your back must be sore from sitting so much," Elaine said, feeling heartbroken at Xavier's sad expression. She reached for Julia's arm and guided her to sit down beside her. Xavier's eyes brightened up. He darted behind Julia and began tapping her back with gentle, steady taps. Julia pressed her lips together. Elaine gave her a pointed look, and she held back from brushi