He kept his grip on her waist as he smiled, pulling her into a hug.

Bethany froze, surprised at first. Her heart leaped with joy, a hope blooming in her chest that her son had recognized her and finally returned to her.

She bent down, cupping his face with trembling hands, caressing it. “Your face… it’s so soft! You... remember me?” Her voice cracked with emotion.

But his expression shifted suddenly, turning from happy to serious.

“What? What is happening?” she asked, confused.

He screamed with an exaggerated tone, “I call you Mom, and I get a treat! Thank you for your patronage!”

Bethany’s breath hitched as he abruptly broke...