“Do you all live here in the old town?” Carney asked.
“Our boss’s family is originally from Silverlake City,” Carol explained, “but he’s immigrated to Westermar now. He just brought the young master back to pay respects to his ancestors, but we’ll probably be heading back in a few days.”
Carney nodded. “Well, that’s a shame.”
Carol sighed, a little helpless. “It really is. Such a pity.”
Meanwhile, James was busy snapping photos and recording videos of the two children.
The carousel slowed to a stop.
James and Carol walked over and gently lifted the kids down.
After that, the three adults spent the afternoon wandering the amusement park with the two children, laughter and cheerful shouts trailing behind them.
They played all the way until evening, when the sun dipped low on the horizon.
As they strolled toward the exit, Little Nina clung tightly to little Mario’s hand, refusing to let go. “Mario, come home with me tonight for some birthday cake! It’s my birthday today, and my mom made the cake herself–it’s so yummy!”
Little Mario was clearly tempted, but he wasn’t sure if he was allowed.
He looked up at Carol, hope shining in his eyes.
Carol knelt down beside him and ruffled his hair. “Mario, I’m sorry. That’s not a decision I can make on my own.”
Little Nina tiptoed closer, her sweet voice even more persuasive. “Carol, why don’t you and Mario come over for dinner too? It’s my birthday, and I really, really want Mario to celebrate with me!”
James and Carney exchanged a glance, both looking a little helpless.
When their little girl decided to work her social magic, there wasn’t much they could do but stand back and
watch.
Carol hesitated, but with Little Nina’s pleading and Mario’s earnest expression, it was hard to say no.
Seeing the situation, Carney chimed in, “Why don’t you call your boss and ask? It’s rare for Mario to make a friend he gets along with. A little more time together could do wonders for him.”
“You’re right. I’ll give him a call,” Carol agreed, standing up and stepping aside to phone Garry.
When Garry heard that little Mario had made a friend, he was genuinely surprised. “He actually wants to play with another child?”
“He does. He even started talking,” Carol replied, chuckling. “The little girl is so sweet–she’s a year older than Mario and really outgoing. She’s had a great influence on him. He’s clearly in a much better mood.”
“In that case, let them play a bit longer. I’ll come pick you up once I’m done here.”
“Alright, thank you.”
Carol ended the call and shared the good news with the children.
Little Nina clapped her hands in delight.
Mario watched her, then slowly, almost shyly, lifted his hands and clapped along, a bit awkward but clearly happy.
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19:54
Chapter 292
The sight made Carol’s heart swell with emotion.
James and Carney watched, their pride unmistakable.
Seeing their little princess reach out and help another child so naturally made them beam with pride.
Little Nina really was a little angel–everyone who met her adored her.
As the last rays of the sun faded and dusk settled in, the wooden gate of their cozy home swung open-
“Mom!”
Little Nina tugged Mario inside with her. “Mom, look! I brought home the sweetest little brother to celebrate my birthday with me!”
