This past year has been one of the most demanding seasons of my life. Between a fast-paced career as a corporate lawyer and caring for my mother during her illness, my days were filled with endless responsibilities. The long hours at the office and regular hospital visits left little time for anything else—including my husband, Jake, and our daughter, Mia.
My mother’s medical expenses required me to take on more work than ever before. Thankfully, Jake stepped up in every way—managing the household, cooking, cleaning, and supporting Mia with her schoolwork. Most nights, I arrived home completely drained, with just enough energy to say goodnight before collapsing into bed.
One evening, after tucking Mia in, I was tidying up the living room when I noticed something under the table—a colorful drawing. At first glance, it was a charming little sketch of a family. I immediately recognized Jake and Mia. But the woman drawn beside them didn’t look like me. She had long brown hair and wore a flowing blue dress. At the bottom, in Mia’s handwriting, were the words: “I can’t wait for you to be my mom.”
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