Shadows of the heart

"You've grown so much," his mom said. "Let me look at you," she said with a smile.

Muya replied, his gaze filled with affection. "Why don't you come to visit often, Mom? I need my mom, don't you know that?"

 

Victoria smiled gently, her heart touched by her son's words. "You speak as though your brother doesn't. But here I am now. See? I'm here."

 

Their tender moment was interrupted by Bianca's voice. "We're not leaving anytime soon, so don't worry about that," she chimed in, her tone smug. Muya's fury flared at her intrusion.

"Who asked you?" he snapped, his patience wearing thin. Victoria intervened, attempting to diffuse the tension.

"Muya, this is Aunt Bianca; have you forgotten her?" She introduced herself, her voice calm.

"Aunt, my ass," Muya muttered under his breath, his frustration palpable.