My Repentant Brothers (Madeline Larson)

Wesley found the scene amusing. Gavin, being younger, easily got along with Madeline, bringing a lighthearted vibe. On the other handl. Eugene, a social whiz, effortlessly set aside pride and didn't mind trying hard to win favor.

Wesley glanced around at the others-some were too introverted to express themselves, while others held back due to their standing, not wanting to act too boldly

Finally, he looked at Madeline, who was still unsure about her feelings. Wesley was curious to see who she'd ultimately choose

Madeline frowned, "Wesley, why are you just smiling at me without saying anything? Look at Gavvy and Eugene-they treat this like a joke

Wesley offered a tight smile "Maybe they're not joking"

Madeline sighed heavily. She felt overwhelmed by the situation. In her past life, she never had feelings for that lover, she'd thought he seemed nice back then. Now, with her brothers eager to marry her, she couldn't sort out her emotions and wasn't planning on settling down.

Frank sat on the couch and asked, "Maddie, what's the deal with this child? Are you planning to adopt? Don't mind me asking, but aren't you a bit young!

"In our day, you'd be married with kids by now. But times have changed. You haven't even graduated college, there's no rush"

Though not formally educated. Frank saw village girls with education leading good lives without rushing into marriage. Meanwhile, those who married and had children early faced struggles-raising kids without careers wasn't easy, and relying financially on someone else never felt right.

Frank worried about Madeline taking care of a child so young. He wondered. How would she find someone to marry later? What if she wants her own family?

His concern ran deep; as he aged, Frank pondered these things more. "You really need to think about this carefully

Madeline knew they were just concerned about her, "Grandpa, the child is a little girl named Grace-Grace Larson. I hope she grows up safe and sound. I won't let having her stop me from achieving my own goals. She's just so little right now, and I haven't found someone reliable to help care for her."

Helena chimed in with a smile, "I can take care of her. Gavin already mentioned that we could help out. At my age, farming is getting dull. Having a little one around would brighten my days." Madeline's eyes softened.

Just then, Grace started crying. Eugene, who had been entertaining her, was suddenly at a loss as she switched moods. "What's going on? Is she hungry? Needs a diaper change?"

Helena took the child from him. "Let me see. Maddie, show me where everything is for the baby."

Madeline quickly led her grandma to get everything organized.

With three bedrooms in the house-one for Madeline, one for Gavin, and a guest room-they set up the guest room for Frank and Helena.

Helena, experienced with children, deftly managed everything. City life had its conveniences she wasn't used to, so Madeline patiently taught her.

Holding Grace over the sink, Helena remarked, "City living sure is convenient.

Madeline smiled warmly. Then why don't you and Grandpa stay in the city with us so I can take care of you?"

"We'll see, Helena replied thoughtfully. "There's still the farmland back home. Your grandpa might not be able to resist returning to it

Madeline had often invited them to live with her in the city, but they always used farming as an excuse. The city bored them- it lacked familiar activities-but having a baby around brought new joy and purpose to their days.

Helena lowered her voice. "Maddie, your brothers all seem great. Marrying any of them would be fine. After all, there's no

relation anyway. They care for you deeply, I can tell. Even with adopting Grace, they're eager to be her father. It shows ch they care about you."

fadelse felt her cheeks warm, avoiding eye contact. "Don't say that. They're my brothers. I can't think about marrying them."

Why not? Back in our village, cousins sometimes married. You and your brothers aren't even related by blood," Helena sisted. "Do you not like them?"

"It's just picking one changes everything with the rest. As siblings or friends, we can have stable relationships forever. But becoming a couple might ruin that," Madeline admitted. "Sometimes the best relationships are those that stay like family If you marry someone else, they might be even more unhappy, Helena pointed out.

Madeline realized this might be true.

"It's better to keep things in the family. No matter who you choose, the others will surely be supportive, Helena chuckled. "You worry y too much. Just think about who you actually like."

Madeline wasn't keen to continue this topic. Her brothers' affection meant the world to her; she didn't want to complicate things.ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

The sound of running water filled the room as Helena expertly washed Grace. This little one's so chubby and cheerful-no wonder you want to adopt her

Grace happily waved her pudgy hands, reaching for Madeline.

Madeline gently squeezed her hand. "Sweetie, stay still. Great-Grandma's washing you."

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Helena glanced at Madeline's face, noticing a gentle warmth in her eyes she hadn't seen before. It made her feel a pang emotion. This child, always so guarded, like a prickly thistle. Her tough experiences had taught her to hide her softer side to protect herself. Helena swallowed the lump in her throat. "Having Grace with you is good. When we're gone, you'll still have someone who loves you."

Madeline pressed her lips, smiling softly, "Grandma, don't say things like that. You'll always love me, and I'll always love you and Grandpa. No more gloomy talk."

Helena chuckled, "If you love us, find yourself a wonderful husband. Let us cross that off our list as happy grandparents,

Madeline.

Madeline pouted playfully, "Didn't Grandpa just tell me not to rush? And here you are nudging me to settle down."