Since then, Ashburn didn’te to see me for a week.


    I went home, gathered all the documents for my visa application, and coincidentally, Mom was there.


    Mom looked at the dark circles under my eyes, gently touching my face, and I rubbed against her hand.


    “Haven’t been resting well, have you?”


    I shook my head, telling Mom not to worry, just busy with my final project.


    “It’s okay. Even if you can’t graduate, you can go help your dad and your brother.”


    I didn’t say anything. Family ties were the biggest barrier between us, and I didn’t want to get involved in the family business.


    Seeing me silent, Mom also knew that I didn’t like interference in the family business, so she pulled me aside to talk about some mother-daughter chitchat.


    “Honey, your birthday ising up.”


    Only at that moment did I realize that Christmas and my birthday were approaching.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    But I couldn’t summon even a hint of excitement. People reach a certain age and no longer feel enthusiastic about birthdays.


    “What do you want this year? Mom will hide it under the Christmas tree for you.”


    I remained silent for a moment. “I want a talking teddy bear.”


    Mom’s crispughter echoed through the vi, teasing me, “My girl is still a child, still liking teddy bears.”


    I nodded. Yes, I still liked teddy bears.


    “For thest time, Mom. After this Christmas, I won’t like teddy bears anymore.”


    “No, Melody can like teddy bears no matter how old you are.”


    I hesitated for a moment but shook my head.


    No more, Mom. Don’t like teddy bears anymore.