As noon approached, Betty glanced at the time, preparing to head out and make lunch for Michael.
As she opened the door and stepped out, she caught Michael devouring the breakfast she had made, his mouth stuffed full.
It seemed he was just now eating his morning meal.
The young man was growing, clearly famished.
"Mom..." Michael, his mouth brimming with food, mumbled as he saw Betty and hurried over to her.
But as he tried to embrace her, Betty dodged away.
Without a word, Betty prepared lunch and set it on the table.
After visiting the restroom, she returned to her bedroom, not speaking to Michael throughout.
Although she was cold towards him face-to-face, once back in her room, a pang of heartache struck her.
The months of emotional connection with Michael were unforgettable.
She truly considered Michael her own child.