Not a Shrew

The little arms hugged Tia back as she tried to correct Tia, speaking sweetly, "Aunt Tia, I am not little anymore. I am nine years old."

Tia softly chuckled, pulling her away from the embrace. "You are still little for me, Little Peanut…" She brushed the tears away from her face.

The little girl pouted for a second and whined, "Peanut size is this small." She used her thumb and forefinger to show the peanut size before spreading her arms, "I am this big." Then she giggled, making Tia smile.

"Iris…" A lady's voice interrupted them.

Iris turned around and responded to her mother, "Yes, Mom…" Then she held Tia's fingers and gently tugged her to make her stand.

Iris took Tia inside and let her meet everyone. Iris's father smiled shaking her head, "The little chipmunk has grown up." When he had married the doctor, Tia was just seventeen.

"Brother-in-law… I am sorry, I made you all worried." Tia apologized as they hugged sideways.