"Are you alright, Mommy?"

Axel’s small voice pulled Mandy out of her thoughts. She opened her eyes and immediately softened, a smile curving her lips as she stretched out her arms. Axel didn’t hesitate ànd walked straight into them.

She hugged him, pressed a kiss into his hair, then pulled back just enough to look at him.

"Mom’s fine," she said gently, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Just a little tired."

Axel frowned, then suddenly brightened. "I’ll give you a ...