Being a mother was a difficult task, especially since it was my first time experiencing motherhood.
But thanks to the support of my neighbors and advice from other mothers, I managed to get through it. Whenever I had to work, Ms. Rose kindly volunteered to look after my son. At first, I was hesitant, but knowing her, I was truly grateful. Because of her, I was able to go to work with fewer worries.
When my son turned five, he insisted on helping me. I understood that he just wanted to be with me, so I agreed. I asked the owner if he could assist me, and she kindly said yes.
Who could say no to such a beautiful boy? As expected from the son of a duke—jet-black hair, ruby eyes, and skin as white as snow. He was breathtakingly beautiful. I felt so lucky to have him. But because of his appearance, some people ridiculed him, saying he looked different.
Of course, whenever someone spoke ill of him, I confronted them—politely, but firmly.
I always explained things to my son, and he would always tell me, "It's okay." When he turned three, I told him the truth—that I wasn't his biological mother. I left out the part about his noble birth. When I asked if he resented me, he replied:
"Why would I hate you, Mama? You love me so much and took care of me in place of my real mother. You've taught me everything, and I'm happy. There's no reason for me to hate you."
When he said that, I cried. I hugged him tightly and thanked him for those beautiful words. He even called me a crybaby, despite me being the adult. Since then, we've visited Irene's grave from time to time.
Nine years have passed since Dane's birth and Irene's death.
In the original story, Dane would have grown up struggling in the streets. But now, he lives joyfully by my side. He's grown into a charming, kind-hearted boy—nothing like the gloomy, cold character he was meant to be.
"Mama, wake up. It's morning. Mr. Sun is already in the sky," a cute voice called beside me as sunlight warmed my face. I slowly opened my eyes and saw my adorable son.
"Yeah, I already felt Mr. Sun's energy telling me to wake up—and tickle the boy next to me!" I sat up quickly and started tickling him.
"Mama, stop! It tickles!" he shouted between fits of laughter. I chuckled at his reaction, then stopped to kiss him on the cheek.
"Good morning, Dane," I greeted him.
"Good morning too, Mama," he replied, kissing me back.
We got up and made the bed together. Dane is an obedient child and loves helping out. If he keeps this up, he might make a great housekeeper in the future—just kidding.
Afterward, we prepared breakfast. Dane can cook, too. When I'm sick or busy, he steps in and makes food for us. He's not just charming—he's also a little gentleman. It's the result of my hard work raising and loving him.
"Mama, stop grinning like that. If people saw you, they might think you've gone crazy," he teased while eating.
"Let them think. I'm just admiring my sweet boy."
"I bet you're thinking about how amazing I am, and how I'm the product of your hard work."
"Oh my… How did you know?"
"I know you through thick and thin, Mama. I can already tell what you're thinking," he said, waving his fork dramatically like a conductor.
"My son is so smart. I'm proud of you!" I set down my utensils and gave him a round of applause.
"Mama, you praise me too much. But it's all because of your teaching. I can read, write, and solve problems—things most people around here can't do. You're different. I'm starting to think you might be a runaway noble."
"I-I'm not. Someone just taught me when I was in the capital," I lied. Sorry, son. I can't tell you that I'm from another world, and that all I know comes from the school I once attended there.
"Alright, I was only joking, Mama," he said, sipping water and picking up his plate. His attitude always surprises me—did he get that from me?
"Oh, speaking of the capital—you said we're going there today, right?" he asked while cleaning the table.
"Yes. We packed our things last night. The owner selected a few people to travel with her to the capital, and I was lucky to be one of them. I didn't want to leave you behind, so I asked if you could come along. She saw your potential and approved. Besides…" I walked over and hugged him tightly.
"I don't want to be away from you. I might die from missing you."
"I know, Mama. Even without that reason, I would've followed you."
"You're so sweet—"
"I'm just worried you'll end up crying in the streets, calling out my name over and over again. The thought alone is embarrassing."
"You're so mean, Dane," I said, crouching down and sulking. He laughed, stood in front of me, and gently cupped my cheek.
"I'm sorry, Mama. I'm just worried, okay? I care about you. You're the only family I have."
"What would I do without you, Dane?" I hugged him tightly. I would do anything to protect him—even if it means risking everything to stop him from becoming a villain.
It was already noon when we left the house we had lived in for years. All the memories we made there would forever stay in our hearts.
"You're getting emotional, Mama."
"I'm not," I replied quickly. He laughed at my reaction.
"Everyone, the carriage is here! Let's get going!" Ms. Amanda announced.
Everyone was excited—especially my son. I could see it in his eyes.
I chuckled softly, admiring his joyful expression. I knew exactly why he was excited.
First, he would finally see the great capital of the west. Second, his father was there. I had only told him that his father lived in the west and was a great man. When he asked if I knew him, I said yes, but promised to reveal more when the time was right. Unlike other children who would throw tantrums, he simply accepted my words and said:
"I know you'll tell me the truth someday. But I understand why you're keeping it for now. He must be someone important… and maybe you're scared of him. And lastly, you're afraid I'll leave you. Isn't that right, Mama?"
When he said that, I hugged him tightly.
"Don't worry, Mama. I won't leave. I love you."
"I love you too, Dane."
"You okay, Mama?" he asked, snapping me out of my thoughts.
"Of course. I'm just a little excited and nervous," I reassured him.
He wrapped his small arms around me and rested his head on my shoulder. I sighed softly and embraced him.
Once we enter the capital, everything will change. But no matter what happens… I'll protect him—no matter the cost.