Then, it happened.
Jennifer's foot caught on a loose patch of soil, and she let out a sharp gasp—"Aah!"—her body tilting dangerously to the side. I reacted instantly, my arms shooting out to catch her before she could fall.
In one swift motion, I lifted her into my arms, cradling her like a princess. Her breath hitched, her body tense for a moment before she relaxed into my hold.
Up close, I noticed a few loose strands of hair had fallen across her face, clinging to her flushed skin. Without thinking, I reached out and gently tucked them behind her ears. "Mother-in-law, are you okay?" I asked, my voice laced with genuine concern.
Jennifer's face was bright red, her cheeks burning with embarrassment—or something else. She glanced at Emily, who was still holding onto my arm, oblivious to the moment that had just passed between us. "Mom, are you okay?" Emily asked, her voice filled with worry.
