**Chapter 92** As the afternoon sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the hustle and bustle of the city, Avery found herself wandering through the flower market. The bright daffodils caught her eye, their cheerful yellow petals standing in stark contrast to the cool autumn air. Without a second thought, she purchased two pots and made her way to her mother’s humble abode, feeling a sense of purpose with each step. Arriving at the familiar front door, Avery slipped off her shoes and stepped inside, greeted by the familiar scent of home. She knew her mother, Laura, would still be at work, but a sense of curiosity tugged at her—why was the house so quiet? “Mom, are you done for the day?” Avery called out, placing the pots of flowers on the modest living room table, their brightness instantly enlivening the space. Laura emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a dish towel, her expression a mixture of embarrassment and surprise. “Avery! I didn’t expect you so soon,” she said, her voice laced with warmth. “Did you get off work early?” Avery asked, taking in her mother’s demeanor. With a soft sigh, Laura admitted, “I’m not working anymore. My friend’s daughter-in-law found a more professional nanny.” The words hung heavily in the air, echoing her newfound uncertainty. Avery felt a pang of sympathy. “Mom, please don’t be sad,” she murmured as she wrapped her arms around Laura, offering comfort amid the unpredictability of life. Laura chuckled lightly, a hint of resilience breaking through her vulnerable facade. “I’m alright. It’s just… surprising. And tell me, why did you bring two pots of flowers?” Avery glanced around the simple, yet cozy rental, a place filled with memories and love. “I happened to pass by the flower market,” she explained, trying to lift the mood. “I thought you would like them.” “Okay, but you know, I wouldn't worry too much about my job situation. I can always look for something else,” Laura reassured, her voice firm as she waved off the concern. “Mom, take a break! You deserve to relax at home for a while,” Avery insisted, a sense of protectiveness rising within her. Without hesitation, she dug into her bag, pulling out her bank card—a gesture of care. But Laura was quick to push the card away, her expression turning serious. “Avery, listen. If there’s one thing I’ve learned after all these years, it’s that you must rely on yourself. Tomorrow, if I have to clean the streets, I’ll do what it takes rather than depending on you.” Avery couldn’t help but laugh at her mother’s fierce determination, a quality she admired. “Honestly, Mom, I’d hate for you to be out there sweeping the streets! I hear those early morning shifts start around four. It’s too cold for that right now. You should think about an easier job!” Laura chuckled, her eyes twinkling with a blend of mischief and practicality. “If it pays well, what’s waking up early? But enough about that—I’m off to cook. You sit down and take a break.” As Avery settled onto the sofa, she retrieved her phone to check messages, her fingers dancing over the screen until a familiar name caught her eye—Tammy. **Tammy:** *Avery, I’m seriously confused… What’s going on with Elliot? He hasn’t fully recovered, but he’s looking for you? Is this some desperate gesture? If he truly cared, wouldn’t he just support you financially instead of putting on a show?* Avery read the message, bewildered by her friend’s playful tone. What could she possibly say in response to that? Moments later, another message chimed in, breaking her reverie. **Tammy:** *Jun just visited Elliot. The doctor said his immune system is a mess, and he really ought to go to the hospital. Is it serious?* **Avery:** *We won’t know until he gets a proper examination at the hospital.* **Tammy:** *By the way… Is there something brewing between you and Charlie? Everyone says you’re ignoring Elliot because you’ve fallen for Charlie now.* **Avery:** *Who’s everyone?* **Tammy:** *Just folks around Elliot! They think you’ve found a new love. Honestly, I don’t think Charlie’s half as good-looking as Elliot. He feels... glib and manipulative to me.* As if she could feel the weight of Charlie’s presence, Avery fought to suppress a frown. **Avery:** *So you think Elliot looks honorable?* **Tammy:** *Honorable? Not quite. But he doesn’t strike me as slippery! Though I must admit, he does have that fierce vibe. You know, those kinds of guys often have skeletons in the closet—they’re just not trustworthy!* Avery took a sip of water, allowing the cool liquid to wash down the stressful conversations. **Avery:** *What about Jun?* **Tammy:** *He’s younger than both Charlie and Elliot. He has that sweet, caring face—definitely naive. Avery, if you go through with the divorce, consider a younger man. It might be easier to manage them!* **Avery:** *Let’s save that chat for after my divorce, shall we?* **Tammy:** *Are you seriously thinking about divorcing Elliot?* **Avery:** *Why not? It doesn’t matter whether I stay or go. I won't be getting any of his wealth regardless!* Tammy swiftly responded, *You’re right. A man like that is hard to score a win against financially!* As dinner was served, Avery picked at her plate, her appetite waning. Laura glanced over, concern flickering in her eyes. “Why aren’t you eating more? Is something off with the food?” With a slight furrow of her brow, Avery admitted, “Mom, I’m starting to show.” Laura beamed with a mother's pride. “Sweetheart, you’re nearly five months along! Your belly will naturally grow.” Avery smiled softly. “Thank goodness for the cold weather. With all these layers, it’s not too obvious yet.” Then, almost as if a light bulb went off in her head, Laura leaned in, her voice mindful yet enthusiastic. “Avery, have you ever thought about going to graduate school? What if you studied abroad, taking advantage of this time to pursue your degrees while raising your children? It could be a great opportunity!” Avery felt a rush of shock run through her. “Mom, that’s an enormous expense. Besides, I don’t want to go back to school; I’d prefer to work and make my own money.” “No need to fret about finances.” Laura’s voice was firm, the weight of her experience behind it. “I’ve saved enough over the years that I can support you on your journey abroad.” Avery’s heart fluttered, torn between her mother's dreams for her and her own desires. “Mom… I’ll think about it.”