After indulging in a cozy dinner of chicken and dumplings, Mia's perfect day seemed to come to an abrupt end.

Earlier, Andre had spent the day with Mia, picking up a few back-to-school essentials. Since she wasn't staying on campus, they didn't need much. The shopping trip was more of an excuse to spend time together and visit the Cedillo family. Hansen, ever the persuasive patriarch, tried to get them to stay, but Andre, who had grown fond of the unfettered life at Maplewood Estates, wasn't having it. At the Cedillo household, any displays of marital affection had to be restrained. But back at Maplewood Estates, as long as their son was being looked after, Mia could spend the entire day in her room without a peep from anyone.

"Andre, listen to your old man," Hansen began, not waiting for anyone's consent before signaling the staff to prepare a room. "Mia can stay here with Anya, they can carpool to school, and since Leo isn't tied up with classes, he can be their chauffeur. It's settled, you're moving in."

Andre shook his head firmly, "Maplewood Estates, the office, and Mia's school are all on the same route. I'll take her to and from school when I head to work with Henry."

Hansen frowned, "Isn't that a bit of a hassle? Wait, you and Henry? What do you mean?"

"I can't leave the kid home alone. Mia and I wouldn't be comfortable. So, I've decided to bring him to the office."

"Are you out of your mind? You want to bring him to the office to cry and fuss all day? You don't trust the nanny or your own father?" Hansen retorted.

"I'm just worried he might disturb you," Andre replied, though not entirely truthfully.

Hansen shot back sarcastically, "Oh, look at you, suddenly so considerate. Where was this conscience when your sister was getting married?"

Sensing the tension, Mia quickly interjected, "Dad, please don't be upset. Andre's just worried about your age and whether it's suitable for you to look after the baby. Spending time with him occasionally is great, but regularly would be tough, even for me. For someone your age, it's even more demanding.

"He can't go to the office, though. That's a place of work. Besides, we have Naomi, you, and the butler at home. Can't we all take turns?"

had thought about asking Naomi for help but felt it was unfair to burden her, especially since she

don't have much coursework left, so I can manage. Plus, my

decision. After a family meal at the

first day back at school, Leo, having nothing better to do, played the role of her personal

holding their child and hand-in-hand with his wife, also arrived at

one, nestled in his father's arms, gazed at the bustling campus, starting his journey of dropping off mommy

holiday break, Mia felt a profound shift within herself. Despite being the same age, she suddenly felt years older. Was it marriage or motherhood, she wondered, that made her feel this

look this year?" Mia asked

his young wife's still round and adorable face,

are you talking

even

next to them. The

to the bustling campus, she saw other students in over-the-knee boots and stylish waves, some with bold hair colors, wearing

taking the baby from Andre's arms and playfully tapping his little face. "You need to learn to drink formula quickly, so mommy can be beautiful on her own, okay?" Henry,

his arms around his little wife in broad daylight. "How do you know we won't be together

it's really you!" Anya, pulling Leo along, hurried towards

Anya snatched the baby from Mia's arms. "From a distance, I saw you holding a child, and I bet with Chad it was

smile, she said, "See, Chad,

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