“Mom!”

A bright voice called out from the living room, followed by the quick patter of small footsteps rushing toward her.

Liam, her precious son, had just come back from his educational trip to Salzburg.

“Darling, I missed you so much!” Isabella wrapped Liam in a tight embrace, pressing a gentle kiss onto his soft hair.

“I missed you too, Mom!” Liam looked up, his eyes sparkling with pure joy. “Salzburg was amazing. I have so much to tell you…”

He grabbed Isabella’s hand, his excitement almost tangible as he started sharing his adventures.

“We visited the aquarium and saw so many fish! There were dolphins that did tricks…”

Liam’s hands moved animatedly as he imitated the dolphins, his enthusiasm completely infectious. Watching her son’s lively expressions, Isabella’s heart overflowed with love.

All the stress from the studio and Zoe’s provocations faded away, replaced by the simple, profound joy of being with her child.

“We also went to the science museum. They had the coolest robots…” Liam continued, barely stopping to take a breath.

Isabella listened intently, asking questions and sharing in his excitement.

The sheer delight in Liam’s voice and the sparkle in his eyes filled her with a deep sense of happiness and contentment.

“Mom, guess what? I made a new friend. His name is Leo Bennett. We played games and did science experiments together.”

Liam beamed as he pulled a photo from his pocket.

The picture showed two little boys standing side by side, their smiles wide and genuine. Seeing it, Isabella felt a warm rush of joy.

She was thrilled that Liam had found a new friend and had such enriching experiences.

“Mom, can you come with me to Salzburg next time? We can see the aquarium, the science museum, and everything!” Liam pleaded, tugging gently on her hand.

“I promise, sweetheart. Once things calm down a bit, we’ll go together, okay?” Isabella stroked Liam’s hair, her voice soft and a little apologetic.

“Okay!” Liam exclaimed, jumping up to give her another big, joyful hug.

Isabella held her son tightly, her heart swelling with determination. She knew she had to overcome every obstacle for Liam’s sake and win this battle.

“Mom, I’m so hungry!” Liam complained, rubbing his tummy with a pitiful look.

“Alright, let’s get you something to eat,” Isabella replied, taking his hand and leading him toward the kitchen.

“Could you please prepare dinner for us?” she asked the cook.

The cook nodded and immediately got to work.

Isabella and Liam sat at the dining table, chatting happily while they waited for their meal.

Soon, the table was filled with a variety of delicious dishes. The soft light from the crystal chandelier cast a warm glow over the elegant tableware.

Liam inhaled the wonderful aromas, his eyes lighting up with anticipation.

“Wow! Glazed chicken! It’s my favorite!” He beamed, his hands poised to dig in.

Isabella laughed and gently reminded him. “Wash your hands first, my little foodie.”

Liam hopped down and hurried off to the bathroom.

The sound of running water filled the room as Isabella watched him, her heart full of affection for her energetic little boy.