Story world

  "What have you done for us?" Oliver said loudly. "You don’t give us good food, the education we get is poor, and now you’re even neglecting my pocket money! I’m a college student, Dad — I need a comfortable life, but you..." He stopped mid-sentence, but his expression said everything. Joseph staggered, feeling as if his legs had no strength left. He gathered himself and sat down near the chair. He couldn’t believe his son had spoken to him so rudely. He was left speechless — no words, no sound. His wife, Sophia, came quickly, looking worried. “What happened, Oliver?” she asked. But Oliver ignored his mother and walked away angrily. “Are you alright, Joseph?” Sophia asked, bending down beside him. “Yeah,” Joseph replied weakly and with pain in his voice. “I’ll get you a glass of water,” she said quickly, hurrying away. Joseph slowly gathered his tired, aging body and leaned back into a resting position. He closed his eyes — and his mind drifted thirty ...

  “Can you imagine what surprise our children have prepared?” Joseph asked, looking toward Mary. Mary smiled gently. She placed the teacup on the table and replied, “Of course not. I have no idea — they haven’t shared anything about it.” Joseph leaned back in his chair and said with a sigh, “I’m worried.” Mary reassured him softly, “Don’t worry, Joseph. They always think of the best.” Marry paused, then said, “Yes... though I did overhear them whisper something about a ‘new home.’” “What?” Joseph suddenly exclaimed, his voice louder than he intended. Startled, Mary stared at him. “What happened?” she asked. Joseph quickly composed himself. “No... nothing,” he said, trying to hide the concern in his eyes. “Okay Mary, make me some breakfast. I’m feeling hungry,” Joseph said. “Fine, I’ll be quick,” Mary smiled, then walked toward the kitchen. As she left, Joseph sat still, lost in thought. A few days earlier, he had met his old friend Smith , after ...