pter 291
Chapter 291
James hurried over and scooped Little Nina into his arms.
As the carousel came to a stop, little Mario’s eyes welled up with tears. He thought the ride was really over, and the disappointment hit him hard–he began to cry.
His soft sobs caught Little Nina’s attention.
“Why is that little boy crying?” Little Nina watched Mario for a moment, then couldn’t help but exclaim, “He’s so cute!”
James:
” ”
Suddenly, little Mario’s crying stopped.
He stared at Little Nina with wide, tearful eyes.
Little Nina stared right back at him.
The two kids simply gazed at each other, while the three adults nearby exchanged bewildered looks.
Out of nowhere, little Mario lifted his hand and pointed at Little Nina.
Carol glanced at Little Nina, trying to make sense of Mario’s gesture. She crouched down and coaxed gently, “Mario, you have to say what you want. Otherwise, she won’t know what you mean.”
Mario hesitated, his lips moving as he quietly spoke, “Play… with… me.”
Carol’s eyes widened in surprise. “Are you saying you want to play with her?”
Mario nodded vigorously.
Carol’s face lit up as she turned to Little Nina. “Sweetie, would you like to play with Mario for a while?”
Little Nina tilted her head, considering. “He’s adorable. Sure, I’ll play with him!”
Carney
Good by looking a little awkward.
James, meanwhile, put on his best wounded–dad face and frowned at Little Nina. “Little Nina, haven’t I told you before? You shouldn’t judge people by their looks.”
“Huh? I didn’t!” Little Nina pouted. “Mom says I should be nice to other kids when we go out. He was crying so hard–he must’ve been sad because there was no one to play with him!”
James:
”
Carol gently wiped the tears from Mario’s cheeks and looked apologetically at James. “I’m sorry, but if you’re not in a rush, would you mind letting your little girl keep Mario company for a while? He’s mildly autistic, and I’m his caregiver.”
So that’s how it was.
Learning that such a sweet child struggled with autism tugged at Carney and James’s hearts. They both agreed to let Little Nina play with Mario.
Little Nina took Mario’s hand and led him for another turn on the carousel.
Mario genuinely enjoyed being with Little Nina. He still didn’t talk much, but whenever she asked him a question, he’d answer her seriously–even if it was just a few words.
Carol, James, and Carney watched the scene from outside the fence. The sight of the two children together was as heartwarming as it was healing.
“It’s incredible, really,” Carol said softly. “I’ve been caring for Mario for two years, and besides his father, this is the first time I’ve seen him reach out to someone on his own.”
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“Maybe it’s because my girl is just too lovable,” James said with a proud grin. “She’s the most popular kid in her preschool.”
Carol laughed. “You’re so lucky to have such a sweet daughter. Your wife must be wonderful to have raised Little Nina so well.”
James cleared his throat. “Actually, she’s not my daughter by blood–she’s my goddaughter.”
“Oh, I see…” Carol blushed at her mistake and quickly changed the subject If only Mario had a friend like Little Nina around more often, I really think he’d make so much progress.”
