The willow tree in the heart of Silvercity's university garden had always been a quiet retreat. Mariana often came here during her breaks, sketching ideas, writing notes for her thesis, or simply listening to the wind. Today, though, it wasn't solitude that brought her—it was George.
The boy approached cautiously, a little taller now, his school uniform slightly wrinkled, eyes bright with curiosity. He held a notebook in one hand and a chocolate bar in the other.
"I brought you this," he said, sitting beside her on the bench. "For energy."
She laughed softly and took the treat. "Thank you, partner."
They had started calling each other that ever since Mariana let him in on a few of her small, secret plans—simple business ideas, projects involving the flower shop, even a sketch for a children's park. George was eager, attentive, and sharper than most adults she'd met.
"I read what you told me about the system," he whispered, glancing around like they were spies. "The plants, the missions, even the secret bag. Do you think I'll get one too?"
"Maybe one day," Mariana smiled. "But for now, just being part of this world is special enough, right?"
He nodded, but then grew quiet. "Do you think my mom would've liked all this?"
Mariana's heart clenched. She looked up at the willow leaves swaying gently. "I know she would've loved it. She's probably the reason you're doing so well now."
George turned toward her, eyes searching. "You remind me of her, you know."
Mariana smiled with a softness that came from deep within. "That's the nicest thing anyone could say to me."
And beneath the shade of the willow, the bond between mother and son—reborn, reshaped—grew stronger, unspoken but eternal.