CHAPTER TWO

Nicolaz's footsteps echoed through the quiet hallways as he followed Racheal up the stairs. The weight of his worry grew heavier with each step. Christopher's absence had become a familiar ache in his heart, a constant reminder of their strained relationship.

Entering their bedroom, Nicolaz sank into a plush armchair while Racheal perched on the edge of the bed. The room exuded a sense of comfort and familiarity, yet it couldn't ease the tension that filled the air between them.

"Nicolaz, I know how much Christopher's choices have affected you," Racheal began gently, her voice laced with understanding. "But we have to remember that he is his own person, with his own dreams and aspirations."

Nicolaz stared into the distance, his brow furrowed with concern. "I've always wanted him to walk in my footsteps, to carry on the legacy of our family. But it seems he has chosen a different path."

Racheal reached out and took his hand, offering him solace in her touch. "Our son is strong-willed and independent. Those qualities have served him well in his own pursuits. We must respect his choices, even if they differ from our own."

Nicolaz sighed, the weight on his shoulders seeming to grow heavier. "I fear that he may be heading down a dangerous path, one that will only lead to his downfall. I don't want to see him hurt."

Racheal's gaze softened, filled with compassion. "We can guide him, support him, but ultimately, Christopher must find his own way. Sometimes, as parents, we must let go and have faith that our children will find their own purpose."

Nicolaz leaned back in the chair, his thoughts consumed by the complexities of fatherhood. The unspoken distance between him and Christopher felt like a gaping chasm

As Racheal teased Nicolaz about his grey hair, a fleeting smile crossed his lips, masking his inner worries. He appreciated her lightheartedness, finding comfort in her love. Despite the visible signs of aging, Nicolaz knew that his commitment to his family would never waver.

"I'll call Christopher," Racheal suggested, reaching for her phone. She dialed their son's number, preparing herself for the familiar conversation they were about to have.

"Hello, mother," Christopher's voice greeted her on the other end.

Rachel's heart sank a little, recognizing the underlying tone in his voice. "Christopher, don't tell me you forgot about family dinner. You know your father gets grumpy whenever you miss."

Christopher's response held a tinge of resignation. "I know, mother. I'll be on my way soon. I just had something to take care of first."

The disappointment in Rachel's voice was palpable as she slipped back into the endearing nickname she used when Christopher was younger. "You always do, beb— I mean, Christopher."

There was a brief pause before Christopher made a request. "Please don't call me that. I'm not a child anymore."

Rachel's affectionate tone softened. "To a mother, no matter how old her children are, they are always babies. Come soon, bye."

As she ended the call, Rachel sighed, reflecting on the passage of time. Christopher had grown into a man with his own aspirations and responsibilities. The memories of his childhood seemed like yesterday, yet the present reality reminded her that their roles were changing.