Naomi Kenway led Ian Shaw back to the west room. She sat on the bed, and as her body relaxed, she belatedly felt a hint of exhaustion.
Everything that had happened over the past two days left a deep impression on her. Peldon Village was the poorest stop on their tour itinerary, yet it had stirred up countless emotions within her.
"Mommy, are you tired? Can I rub your shoulders for you?"
Ian Shaw was a boy of action. He clambered onto the bed, began to gently knead Naomi Kenway's shoulders, and asked gingerly, "Is this okay? Is all your tiredness flying away?"
A blissful smile spread across Naomi Kenway's face. "Yes, it's all flown away."
She turned to look at Ian, whose face bore a slight resemblance to her own. His once-frail frame had filled out, and his fair, smooth cheeks now had a healthy, age-appropriate baby fat. His big, dark eyes shone with a new light.
Naomi Kenway reached out and gently stroked Ian's cheek. "Looks like you've put on a little weight."
