21#21

21

Gazing through her window, Wanda observed Richard, still rooted to the spot. She muttered a soft curse, calling him foolish, yet her heart swelled with warmth.

From then on, he began accompanying her to and from her workplace.

As time passed, their bond strengthened, but neither found the courage to break the fragile barrier between them.

This changed when Richard's mother, Cathy Ward, noticed her typically reserved son suddenly leaving early and returning late, often smiling at his phone.

Despite her busy schedule, she realized her son was smitten.

When confronted, Richard admitted, "I'm still trying to win her over."

Cathy joked, "Well, well, it seems the impossible has happened."

Richard kept his mother's comments to himself but invited Wanda to visit his home.

After some hesitation, she accepted.

Wanda felt nervous, as the years had erased her memory of Cathy's preferences.

Richard assured her, "She's always been fond of you. She'll appreciate anything you bring."