Chapter 95
"Tiff, are you off work yet?"
"I just finished. What's going on?"
"I cooked dinner, but Eric has a work event tonight. Do you want to come over?" Teresa's voice sounded strained, a hint of distress hidden beneath her words. Having known Teresa her entire life, Tiffany immediately recognized the underlying tension.
She glanced at the fruit in her hand. "Of course, I'll be right there."
Teresa lived in a comfortable, middle-class neighborhood with decent amenities. The appeal of this house had been a significant factor in Teresa's decision to marry Eric. Back then, Tiffany had believed that Eric was a responsible man who would provide a loving and secure home for Teresa. Now, it seemed their judgments had been clouded. Earning a living was one thing, but nurturing a happy home was another. Eric's stark change in behavior before and after marriage served as a harsh lesson in this reality. Tiffany parked nearby and spotted Teresa waiting at the entrance of the neighborhood.
"Teri!" she called out, picking up her pace.
Teresa smiled and walked toward her, "Hello, Tiff."
"I brought some fruit, all your favorites." Tiffany lifted the bag she was carrying; it had originally been intended for Anna, but she had changed her plans and bought a few extra things for Teresa. Teresa chuckled. "You didn't have to buy anything. You just started working and don't earn much; you should save your money."
"It's no big deal."
The sisters linked arms and chatted as they strolled home. Upon entering, Tiffany was met with a strong herbal scent. "Teri, who's taking herbal medicine?"
Teresa handed her a pair of slippers and replied casually, "Me."
"You're perfectly healthy; why are you taking herbal medicine?"
"Well, you know Eric wants kids, but I haven't gotten pregnant. His mom sent some herbal medicine from their hometown for me to try. Teresa's tone was nonchalant.
en FindNovel
Tiffany peeked into the kitchen, lifting the lid of the clay pot. The smell was pungent and unfamiliar.
"Did you consult a doctor about this medicine? Is it safe?"
"It's been checked; it's fine." Tiffany couldn't tell if Teresa genuinely knew the answer or if she was simply reassuring her. Teresa quickly changed the subject.
Tiffany offered to help her, but Teresa gently pushed her into a chair. "You just relax. I'll get the dishes."
Tiffany looked at the spread on the е table, each dish a personal favorite. It was obvious Teresa had put a lot of love and care into preparing this meal for her.
As dusk settled outside, the warm glow of the dining room felt especially cozy to Tiffany.
While eating, she glanced at the time. "Teri, what time are you heading to the stall tonight?"
Teresa hesitated before replying, "Tiff, I'm not going to run the stall anymore."
"What?" Tiffany was shocked; this news completely blindsided her, as the stall was a big part of Teresa's life. "Why the sudden change?"
"It's Eric; he doesn't want me to do it anymore." Teresa's expression was a mix of sadness and resignation. "Having a child is his top priority right now, so he wants me to stay home and focus on that."