Unspoken Bond

"Mommy, are you going to have some? It's the chocolate flavor you love," Rowan said as he took Valerie's hand and looked up at her.

The ice cream had been enjoyed, with a bit of chocolate sauce dripping down. Valerie reached for a tissue to wipe it away for him and said, "Sweetie, you go ahead and enjoy it. Mommy doesn't want any."

Nodding, Rowan lowered his head and ate the ice cream again.

As Va