The question seemed inconsequential, but to Adam Jones, who had lost the chance to experience his child’s younger years, it left a peculiar taste in his heart.
His gaze shifted towards his son standing opposite, whose joyous face pierced his eyes.
From his growth in his mother’s womb, to birth, until now, growing to be three years old, he should have always been by his side.
He had missed his son’s three years of growth, which was regret he would never be able to make up for in his lifetime.
Dispelling the sorrow from his eyes, he patiently replied with uncharacteristic good temper, "My son is very happy, and I’m even happier to have the opportunity to join him in this event. I will not let my son down, and I’ll bring home the championship today."
As he spoke, his gaze never left Elly Campbell. Therefore, he came across far less haughty than usual during a formal TV interview.
Others simply assumed he was happy because his usually busy work routine had prevented him from spending time with his son, and this was an opportunity he cherished.
After all, not everyone could effectively manage a large consortium and remain undefeated.
Elly could feel Adam’s gaze upon her, unwavering, as if passionate emotions were about to burst forth from the bottom of his eyes.
She didn’t turn to look at him, only feeling her ears burn under his stare, so she pretended to be unaware.
Seeing that Adam was fixated on his wife and had no interest in them, the photography crew quickly wrapped up after he answered and, wishing "Mr. and Mrs. Jones" good luck, they went off to interview other parents.
Adam, who had his eyes fixed on Elly Campbell the whole time, noted the process of her earlobes slowly turning a rosy hue, spreading to her ear’s edge, and secretly chuckled.
His wife must be shy because she knew he was watching her.
With this thought, he couldn’t help but lean over and whisper in her ear, "Wife, why is there color on your ear?"
Elly instinctively touched her earlobe, unaware she had acquired any color.
As soon as she touched her ear, Adam caught her hand and, with a mischievous smile, said, "It has turned red."
Seeing that grin, Elly knew she had been played by him yet again, and immediately understood what he meant by "red." Her face fell instantly.
Before she could erupt, a whistle sounded. Adam, who had "dodged a bullet," grinned triumphantly and whispered cheekily in her ear, "Wife, let’s give it our all!"
Elly glared at him fiercely, then set aside her anger to focus on the competition.
Their legs were tied together, and the moment Elly lifted her foot, Adam distinctly felt her movements falter.
Elly, looking at their son on the opposite side cheering "Daddy, Mommy, go for it!" with anticipation and anxiety, decisively shook her head.
Adam didn’t believe her. His deep gaze silently observed her for a few seconds, but ultimately he said nothing.
Knowing this stubborn woman would endure it for their son and was unlikely to heed his advice to drop out, he let her be.
"If you can’t bear it, tell me."
He still couldn’t help feeling concerned and admonished her.
Elly responded, and as Adam extended his arms to wrap them around her shoulders, pulling her close, Elly’s body stiffened slightly.