I looked at Zane.

In my eyes, he was very capable when it came to work. No matter what happened, he could always handle things calmly and with restraint.

I naturally thought that he lived a comfortable and carefree life. So, I was somewhat surprised to hear that he also needed to relieve stress.

Zane didn't wait for my answer and said nervously, "You don't want to?"

He didn't want to force me. "If that's the case, never mind."

I shook my head. "No. I do."

Zane smiled. "Then, I'll wait for you tonight."

"Okay."

...

"Mommy! Daddy!"

The sound of footsteps and Willow's clear voice echoed simultaneously.

I walked out to the balcony. "I'm here."

Willow hugged me. "Dinner's ready. Let's eat!"

Even though Willow still loved her grandparents, she seemed uncomfortable staying with them for an extended time after not being around them for a while. At that moment, she seemed a little uneasy. I picked up Willow. "Let's go."

She wrapped her small hands around my neck, her big eyes staring at Zane behind me.

Zane smiled and asked, "Do you have something to say?"

Willow hesitated and said, "Daddy, you seem to smile more recently."

Zane's steps slowed down. "Oh?"

"When you used to take care of me, you always had a serious face. It was kind of scary," Willow said, still puzzled. "Did something good happen?"

Zane didn't answer her question but asked, "Really?"

Willow nodded heavily. "Yes!"

Zane paused in his steps.

So, had he already changed so much without realizing it?

***

The meal was ready, and Zane wanted to invite the elders to stay for dinner, but they refused.

Milton explained that since Dorothy had just been discharged from the hospital, her body hadn't fully recovered, and the doctor had advised her not to eat much. Therefore, he needed to go home and cook for Dorothy himself. Since he said that, Zane could only watch them leave.

Back at the dining table, Willow was still looking listless.

I asked, "Why aren't you happy?"

"When Grandpa and Grandma talk to me, I really want to answer them," Willow said.

She usually loved the homemade meals, but today, she had no appetite. "But I've tried several times, and I failed."

I could feel that she really loved her grandparents. I gently held her hand and said, "There's a saying that goes 'Every setback is a setup for a comeback."

Willow asked confusedly, "What does that mean?"

"It means failure isn't scary, but you must learn from your failures. Understand the reasons behind your failure, and try a different approach next time. Over time, you will succeed."All content is © N0velDrama.Org.

Willow still looked confused and asked, "Is that really how it works?"

Zane gave her some food and added, "We certainly wouldn't lie to you."

Though Willow was still slightly confused, she trusted Zane. "Then, I'll give it a try!"

After resolving her concerns, Willow felt the food tasted better and happily ate two portions.