The kids went to settle their luggage and take their showers while I started preparing dinner. It was already 8 in the evening, so it was the perfect time for us to eat. I had also asked the person in charge of the house earlier to stock up on groceries, so everything I needed was ready.
After half an hour of cooking, I called them down.
"Dinner's ready, babies!"
But of course… drama is always part of life in this house.
"Mommmmm! Gege doesn't want to help me with my luggage!" – Xia complained.
"Oh? Usually he helps you. What happened?" I asked.
"Mom, she locked me in the shower just now, so I don't want to help Meimei," – Xayden said, crossing his arms.
I tried not to laugh.
"Xia, go and apologise to your Gege."
I watched as she walked up to her brother, pouting.
"I'm sorry, Gege. I'll never do that again, I promise… okayyyyy, pweaseeee?" – Xia said softly.
Then she hugged and kissed him.
"Okay… I love you," – Xayden replied, giving in immediately.
This little boy really has a soft spot for his family—especially me and his sister.
"Okayyyy, come have dinner before it gets cold."
"We're cominggg, Mom!"
We had dinner together in the living room. It was peaceful, filled with stories, laughter, and playful teasing. Moments like this remind me how blessed I am.
After dinner, I spent time with them—doing a little exercise, playing games, and watching TV together. This routine… it means everything to me. And I'm proud to be their mother.
"Okay, kids. Five more minutes, then it's bedtime," I said.
Tonight would be their first time sleeping separately.
"Okay, Mom. Five more minutes yaaaa," – Xia replied.
"Gege, hurry! Finish this game!" she added excitedly.
I smiled as I watched them.
A new home. A new life.
And maybe… a new beginning for all of us.