?Chapter 1388:


    Eileen patted Bryan’s arm and said to Gabri, “He’s your dad, and he’s my husband. Someday, you’ll have your own husband.”


    Gabri blinked a few times, seemingly processing Eileen’s words. She trotted back, patted Bryan on the shoulder, and announced to Eileen, “Let’s switch. He can be your dad and my husband!”


    Eileen’s lips twitched as Bryan’s richughter filled the room. He beamed, scooping up Gabri with a yful swoop.


    Bryan said, “Now, Gabri, you know I can’t be your hubby. Daddy is Daddy, in and simple.”


    Gabri’s little face immediately crumpled, her lower lip sticking out in a pout. “So, you can be Mommy’s hubby, but not mine? You don’t love me anymore, do you?” Her childish jealousy hung thick in the air.


    Bryan’s expression softened as he exined, “I love you more than you know, but I love you as my daughter. Your mommy is my wife, in the eyes of thew.”


    But Gabri, not one to be swayed easily, waved her hand dismissively as if shooing away a fly. “I don’t care about thew! I don’t recognize it!”


    Eileen chuckled, unable to hide her amusement. “Toote for that! We’ve been married for years.”


    Eileen pointed to their bedside table. “Look, there’s our wedding photo.”


    Gabri squinted at the image. “Where was I at that time?”


    “You were still in my tummy,” Eileen exined, a fond smile ying on her lips. “But you did attend our wedding—not many kids can say that!”


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    Gabri’s brow furrowed in concentration. She patted Eileen’s stomach. “My little brother wasn’t there!”


    “That’s right,” Bryan said. “But it might also be your little sister. Now, go have breakfast with your grandma.”


    At the mention of food, all thoughts of husbands and weddings evaporated in Gabri’s mind. She scampered to the bathroom, teetering on her step stool to brush her teeth before dashing downstairs.


    Eileen took her time with her morning routine. By the time she descended the stairs, Gabri had finished eating and was regaling Ruby with her grievances. As Eileen settled in to eat, she listened to Gabri talk.


    “I’ll have my own hubby when I grow up!” Gabri eximed.


    Rubyughed warmly, eyes twinkling. “Finding a husband is serious business, little one. You’ll need to choose carefully when you’re older.”


    “Grandma, where’s your hubby?” Gabri asked, her tone suddenly solemn.


    Eileen paused mid-bite, looking at the pair seated on the carpet.


    Ruby hesitated, her voice soft. “My husband… He passed away, sweetheart. Now, let’s get ready for our visit to Le and Ste, shall we?”


    The deft change of subject worked its magic. Gabri bounced off to gather her toys and snacks.


    As soon as Eileen finished eating, she began clearing the dishes, but Ruby gently took them from her hands. “No, no, let me handle this. You should go outside and enjoy the sunshine. Bryan has arranged for a driver to take me and Gabri to the suburbster. I’ve left some food for you in the fridge, so make sure you eat lunch. Don’t just skip it.”


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