To get by, I sell produce and flowers at the farmers market. Tulips in the spring and tomatoes in the summer. I knit in the evenings, making scarves, little bags, and even mittens if my hands allow. Every dollar counts. We live lean, but our little house is warm, and we’ve always got enough love to go around.
That morning, Ben had a dentist appointment. He sat so still in that big chair, his little fists clutching mine the whole time. Not one tear. He kept his eyes locked on mine like he was bracing himself for whatever came next.
He nodded but didn’t speak. Brave as ever, but I could tell he was scared.
Afterward, I told him I had a surprise. Something small.
“Hot chocolate?” he whispered, hopeful, like even asking felt too big.Continue reading…
