Quintina's teasing made Vivica blush. "It wasn't a gift from him," she said defensively. "Sheridan and Melanie insisted on giving it to us."
"Oh, please. As if his parents could give you a house like this if Mr. Baird didn't approve."
Vivica just smiled. Quintina was right. At the end of the day, it was Joseph's generosity. And he wasn't just generous; he was dependable and had a deep sense of responsibility.
The two went inside, where Chaim turned from his mountain of toys. "Quintina!"
Quintina held up the gift bag. "Happy birthday, Chaim! I wish you all the health and happiness in the world. Here's your present."
"Thank you! But you shouldn't spend money on me anymore. I have… way too many presents here," he said, gesturing to his collection. "You should save your money and buy yourself some pretty clothes. Girls should always look beautiful."
Chaim accepted the gift, then delivered his advice with the solemnity of a tiny old man. His sweet, earnest tone was utterly adorable.
His words left both Quintina and Vivica stunned and deeply touched. A three-year-old with such emotional intelligence, capable of declining future gifts so graciously that it left the giver feeling happy instead of awkward.
Quintina scooped him up in a huge hug. "Chaim, I knew I didn't spoil you for nothing! You're actually thinking about my well-being. I'm so moved!"
Vivica gently pinched her son's cheek. "You little rascal, who taught you to say things like that?"
Chaim answered with perfect seriousness, "I know how to talk all by myself. Why would someone need to teach me?"
"Wow! Our Chaim is a little genius!"
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