"Daddy Lucas, you too have kissed Mommy. Why will you beat Daddy Barry up for that?" Cradling in Barry's arms, Alick asked.
"Well..." Lucas didn't dare to meet either Barry's or William's eyes. He looked around like he was suddenly fascinated by the scenery.
"That's the playground!" Mary shouted excitedly, dispelling the awkwardness in the air. "And behind it, you can see the basketball court. If you look carefully, you can still see a bunch of students playing! Wow, our juniors are quite handsome!"
"Playing basketball isn't a big deal," murmured William discontentedly. "I will show you someday. I am a fantastic player."
"Daddy Barry, what about you? Do you play basketball?" asked Alick, his curiosity piqued.
"Sometimes," Barry replied modestly. "But I will teach you what I know," he added, realizing Alick wished to learn from him.
"Yes! Daddy Barry is awesome!" Alick said, breaking into a smile.
"You are too modest, aren't you?" Mary smiled at him. She looked at Alick and said, "Daddy Barry was the best player during those days."
"Was I?" Raising his eyebrows, Barry feigned shock. "It was a long time ago. I only recollect playing a few matches here and there. But I do remember you brought me water every time."
'Cut the crap!' William thought, his face convulsed with rage. It took a lot of effort to contain his anger. He wished Barry would just shut up! After all, he wasn't here to listen to their trashy love story!
Soon, they arrived at the hall of Z University. It was an enormous hall yet it was full of people. Apart from the dazzling light that came from the stage, it was quite dark.
William and Lucas intended to go backstage with Barry and Mary. However, Mary stopped them.
"I want you both to stay here and watch over Alick and Elissa. I'll be back soon," she said and got ready to follow Barry.
"No, I am coming wi
t to set. Finally, Mary calmed down. "Let's go," she announced.
The group of people silently walked back. Mary turned around to take one last look at her mother's tomb. She didn't have the heart to leave but she knew she had to.
As soon as they went down the hill, Mary came face to face with her old neighbor. He was just returning from work.
"Uncle Ban?" she called out, recognition passing her face.
"Ah! Mary, is that you?" Uncle Ban squinted to get a better look. "Oh my God! It is indeed you. We haven't seen each other for many years! Where have you been?" he asked, looking delighted.
"I went abroad," she said, forcing a smile. Her eyes were puffy and bloodshot. "How have you been, Uncle Ban?" she asked.
"I am doing fine. Just like I was when you last saw me," Uncle Ban said, flashing her a smile. Then he caught William's eye and recognized him instantly. "William, you are here too."
"Hello, Uncle Ban," William greeted him as he walked forward.
Mary was surprised. 'How does Uncle Ban know him?'
"You are a bit early this year, aren't you?" Uncle Ban asked, smiling.
"Well, yes. But I brought Mary and kids along," he replied. His affectionate gaze fell on Mary.
"You have no idea how happy this makes me!" After saying this, Uncle Ban took a look at the kids. "Your kids are adorable. The boy is a photocopy of your husband, Mary."
Barry's eyes darkened with anger.
"Um..." Mary muttered, trying to say something. Panic swelled within her.
"Mary, will you go back to your home?"
"No," Mary said, shaking her head, "I will be going back to the city now."
"Well, okay. I am delighted to see you all," Uncle Ban said honestly.
After exchanging a few pleasantries, they got back in the car.
It was quite late and the kids fell asleep in the car. They would stay in the hotel tonight and return to A City the next day.