“Nelly, would you like to come downstairs with me?” Ben asked, raising an eyebrow with a curious glint in his eyes. His tone was casual, but there was an unmistakable hint of excitement hidden beneath it. “What’s down there?” Nelly replied, curious but also hesitant, as though unsure whether she should trust his mysterious demeanor.
With a playful grin that made his intentions seem both mischievous and harmless, Ben stepped closer and took her arm gently, as if trying to persuade her with his actions instead of words. “Just follow me and you’ll see!” he said, his voice carrying an air of suspense that only made Nelly more intrigued.
Nelly followed him downstairs, her curiosity growing stronger with each step. She couldn’t help but wonder what he was planning, and though her pace was slow, her anticipation made it feel as though time itself had quickened.
Once they arrived in the courtyard, Nelly couldn’t contain her questions any longer and inquired again, “Where are we headed?” Her voice was soft but determined, as though she hoped to uncover the secret just by asking. “You’ll find out shortly!” he teased, his playful tone doing little to satisfy her growing curiosity. She smiled back at him, noticing the clear blue sky overhead and how the sunlight seemed to make everything feel alive. The air was crisp, the flowers were in full bloom, and the entire scene felt as though it had been crafted by nature to be utterly perfect.
As they approached the gate, a sudden voice called out, “Nelly!” The sound was sweet yet urgent, cutting through the calm atmosphere like a note in a melody.
Nelly halted, momentarily confused by the sound that seemed to come from nowhere. She turned her head slightly, her expression a mix of curiosity and uncertainty.
“Nelly!” the voice called again, this time clearer and closer. Turning fully, she spotted a figure running toward her, the sight both surprising and oddly familiar.
Nelly froze at the sight of the girl, her mind racing to process what she was seeing. The figure approaching her was both unexpected and yet somehow deeply comforting in a way she couldn’t quite explain.
Dressed in a vibrant dress that seemed to shimmer in the sunlight, with a hat perched slightly askew on her head and a sling bag bouncing on her shoulder, Donna resembled a character from a storybook. Her energy and excitement were palpable as she bounded toward Nelly.
For a moment, Nelly thought she might be imagining things. Could this really be happening? Her mind raced with doubt, but the girl’s familiar presence felt undeniably real.
Before she could gather her thoughts or even utter a word, Donna reached her and threw her arms around her tightly, squeezing her with an affection that left no room for doubt.
Feeling the warmth of Donna’s embrace sent a wave of emotion through Nelly. It was a moment of pure connection, one that made her realize with absolute certainty that the girl was indeed there, standing before her.
Looking down, Nelly noticed that Donna’s hat had fallen off during her eager run toward her. Even with her hair slightly out of place, Donna looked utterly adorable, her cheeks flushed from exertion and excitement.
“I’ve missed you so much, Nelly,” Donna said, her voice trembling with raw emotion. Her words were simple, but the sincerity behind them left no room for misunderstanding.
As Nelly lifted her gaze, she spotted Alpha Kilian entering the courtyard with a suitcase in hand, his presence suddenly putting the entire situation into perspective. Everything clicked into place in her mind, and she gently stroked Donna’s head before responding, “I missed you, too.”
Donna clung to Nelly, wrapping her arms around her as though she never wanted to let go. It was clear that the time apart had taken its toll on her, leaving her feeling unbalanced and longing for the connection they now shared.
Ben, who had been silently observing the heartfelt reunion, couldn’t resist teasing. “So, Donna, am I not missed at all?” he asked, his tone lighthearted but tinged with mock disappointment.
“Yes!” Donna responded earnestly, still holding onto Nelly’s hand as though afraid to let go. Her response was quick, but her focus remained entirely on Nelly.
With a playful sigh, Ben said, “Okay, that’s enough. Let’s head inside before I start feeling completely ignored.” Donna looked up at Nelly with wide, red-rimmed eyes that shimmered with unshed tears. Pouting slightly, she pleaded, “Nelly, carry me!” Her voice was soft but insistent, and her expression was impossible to resist.
Without hesitation, Nelly bent down and lifted the girl into her arms, holding her close as though she were the most precious thing in the world.
Ben frowned slightly as he watched Donna cling to Nelly like a little koala, her arms wrapped tightly around her neck.
Before he could say anything, Alpha Kilian chimed in with a calm yet authoritative tone. “Let me take her,” he offered, stepping forward as though expecting Donna to comply.
“No! I want Nelly!” Donna insisted, her voice firm and unwavering as she tightened her grip on Nelly, refusing to budge even an inch.
Nelly glanced at Alpha Kilian, a small, triumphant smile playing on her lips. It felt like a subtle victory, a moment that reminded her of all the years she had spent caring for the children and being their safe haven.
“Nelly’s not feeling well,” Alpha Kilian said, his tone softening slightly as he attempted to reason with the stubborn girl.
Immediately, Donna turned to Nelly, her small hands reaching up to place gently against her forehead. Cradling her face with surprising tenderness, she asked, “What’s wrong, Nelly? Are you sick?”
“I’m fine,” Nelly reassured her quickly, her voice gentle but firm. She didn’t want Donna to worry unnecessarily.
“Then… what is it?” Donna asked, her eyes filling with concern as she searched Nelly’s face for answers. Her voice was tinged with worry, and her small brow furrowed deeply.
Alpha Kilian interjected once more, his voice calm but deliberate. “Her stomach hurts,” he said, offering an explanation that was both simple and effective.
The clever girl considered this for a moment, her expression thoughtful as she processed the information. Then, as if suddenly understanding, she turned to Alpha Kilian and stretched her arms out toward him. He readily scooped her up, holding her with the same tenderness Nelly had shown.
“Nelly, hold my hand,” Donna said, extending her small hand toward Nelly with a look of pure trust and affection. Nelly smiled warmly and took it, feeling a sense of contentment as she walked beside them, her hand in Donna’s and her heart full.
Once they settled into the living room, Donna slipped off Alpha Kilian’s lap and nestled beside Nelly. She hugged her tightly, her small frame pressed against Nelly as if she were seeking both comfort and reassurance. There was something different about Donna’s behavior that Nelly hadn’t seen before-something more vulnerable and clingy. The girl seemed unwilling to let go, as if afraid that the distance between them might return if she did.
Nelly had never seen her daughter act this way before, and the sudden display of affection caught her off guard. “Are you finally appreciating me now? Is this what’s happening?” she teased, her tone lighthearted but filled with genuine curiosity.
“What do you mean? I’ve always appreciated you, Nelly!” Donna replied, her voice full of conviction. She snuggled even closer, her small hands clinging to Nelly’s arm. “You’re the best, Nelly! No one else even comes close!” Her words were pure and unfiltered, spoken with a sincerity that left no room for doubt.
“And what about Daddy?” Nelly asked, raising an eyebrow playfully. Her tone was teasing, but there was a hint of genuine interest in her question, as if she wanted to see how Donna would respond.
Before Donna could respond, Alpha Kilian interjected smoothly, his voice calm but with a slight smirk. “I haven’t lost any of her affection; she just spent enough time with me on the way here.” His words were confident, but there was a playful edge to them, as though he were challenging Nelly to refute him.
Nelly feigned disappointment, letting out an exaggerated sigh as she turned to Donna. “Oh, I see… so you’ve already had enough of your daddy, huh?” she said, her tone deliberately dramatic.
“I missed you so much! I even lost weight because I missed you,” Donna whined, her voice filled with exaggerated emotion. She pouted as she spoke, her expression making it clear that she wanted Nelly to feel just how much she had suffered during their time apart.
Nelly looked her over carefully, as though assessing her claim. After a moment, she nodded and said, “You have lost some weight, but you’ve also gotten prettier! Look at you, all glowing and radiant!” Her tone was warm and affectionate, and her words brought an instant smile to Donna’s face.
“Is something wrong, Nelly?” Donna asked suddenly, her brows furrowing in concern. Her perceptiveness was striking, and it was clear that she could sense something was on Nelly’s mind.
Nelly paused, her smile faltering for just a moment. Then, she explained, “This isn’t our home. It belongs to your daddy’s friend, so we need to be respectful while we’re here.” Her voice was calm but firm, as though she were gently trying to teach Donna an important lesson.
Just then, a voice drifted in from behind them, cutting through the moment with an unexpected warmth. “It’s always a pleasure to welcome a friend. The owner of this house doesn’t matter,” the voice said. Dave walked in, his presence commanding yet approachable. His gaze landed on Nelly and Donna, and his expression softened. “My home has felt empty for years, but you two have brought life back to it. Please, treat it as your own,” he added sincerely.
Alpha Kilian observed the interaction in silence, his brows raising slightly as he watched Dave’s demeanor. There was something in his expression-perhaps curiosity or even mild amusement-but he didn’t say a word.
Nelly was about to respond when she noticed Donna staring at Dave in awe. Her eyes were wide and sparkling, her expression one of pure admiration. “Mister, you’re so handsome… like a prince from a show!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder.
Dave was momentarily speechless, clearly taken aback by the girl’s innocent compliment. He blinked a few times, then let out a soft laugh, charmed by her honesty.
“That’s refreshing!” he thought, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Someone here has a way with words,” he added to himself, amused by Donna’s candid nature.
He smiled at Donna and beckoned her closer with a gentle motion. “Is your name Donna?” he asked, his tone kind and inviting.
She nodded eagerly, her excitement evident. “Yeah, that’s my name!” she replied, her voice bright and cheerful.
“You’re very pretty. I didn’t expect your daddy to have such a beautiful daughter,” Dave complimented, his words genuine.
Donna beamed at the praise, her smile lighting up the room. “You’re handsome too, Mister! Way better looking than movie stars!” she said, her voice filled with childlike enthusiasm.
Dave glanced at Alpha Kilian with a teasing look, as if silently asking him how he felt about the sudden comparison. Then he turned back to Donna, his smile widening. “So, who’s more handsome? Me or your daddy?” he asked, his tone playful but curious.
Donna’s face scrunched up in mock frustration, her brows furrowing as she crossed her arms. “Mister, that’s a tough question! Do you not like our conversation? Why would you put me in such a position?” she retorted, her quick wit catching him off guard.
Dave was taken aback by her cleverness, his expression shifting to one of surprise. He looked at Alpha Kilian, who wore a smug grin, clearly enjoying the exchange.
Donna’s expressions shifted effortlessly, her small face a canvas for her emotions. “You’re not really being fair,” Dave admitted, scratching his head as he conceded defeat.
“Mister, asking me to choose between my mom and dad is like asking a child to pick favorites. It’s impossible!” Donna declared, her voice firm and unwavering.
“You make a valid point,” Dave replied, nodding thoughtfully. “I’ve never been a parent, so I appreciate the lesson. I apologize for my question, Donna. Don’t be upset.”
Hearing this, Donna’s face lit up instantly, her mood shifting as quickly as a summer breeze. “If you’re sorry, I won’t be mad anymore. Handsome men often say things they don’t mean, so it’s okay!” she said, her tone forgiving and lighthearted.
Once again, Dave found himself speechless, utterly charmed by the girl’s quick wit and natural charisma. The way her mood could shift so effortlessly was both impressive and endearing.
He looked at Alpha Kilian and Ben, both of whom were chuckling quietly, clearly entertained by the interaction.
Nelly couldn’t resist jumping in. “Donna, don’t be cheeky!” she said, her tone playful but laced with a hint of warning.
Turning to her, Donna responded with a cheeky grin. “I was just having some fun, Nelly. Don’t be mad!”
Realization dawned on Dave as he watched the exchange. He had been completely outsmarted by the little girl, and he couldn’t help but smile at her cleverness.
Of course, she and her siblings are just as clever, he thought to himself. I can’t believe I almost fell for her innocent act.
“You take after your father,” Dave remarked, his tone light but thoughtful.
“I’ll take that as a compliment, Alpha Dave,” Donna replied smoothly, her words carrying a confidence that seemed far beyond her years.
“Oh, you know who I am?” Dave asked, raising an eyebrow in surprise.
“Of course! Daddy often speaks about you, but he never mentioned how handsome you are!” Donna chirped, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
Dave couldn’t help but laugh, a genuine warmth spreading through his chest. Having a daughter like Donna was clearly something to cherish, and he envied Alpha Kilian for it.
“Alpha Dave, can you carry me?” Donna asked eagerly, her arms outstretched.
“Absolutely!” he replied without hesitation, bending down to scoop her up.
“Can we take a picture together? I’ll send it to Sharon; she’ll be so jealous!” Donna exclaimed, her excitement spilling over.
Having melted under Donna’s charm, Dave was more than willing. “Sure!” he said, smiling at her.
Watching the two bond so quickly, the rest of the family exchanged amused glances. It was clear that Donna had a special knack for making connections wherever she went, her social nature shining brightly.
Just then, Tony rushed into the room, his excitement evident in the way his voice carried. “Donna!” he called out, his tone filled with joy and relief.
When he spotted her, his face lit up with a huge smile, his happiness unmistakable. The three siblings had never been apart for long, and this was the first time they had felt the weight of that distance.
Though unspoken, it was clear from the way Tony’s eyes shone that he had missed her deeply. As their gazes locked, a wave of joy washed over them, and in that moment, their heartfelt reunion was complete.