Later, at home, Adrian stretched out on the bed, absorbed in a book, while Joelle went through her nightly skincare routine. Aurora walked in.
âMom, Dad, I want to go to Riverdale Elementary School.â
Adrian and Joelle exchanged a look of mild surprise at Auroraâs mature thoughts about her future.
âWhy do you want to go there?â Joelle asked.
âMy teacher told us they have the best resources for learning. Kids come from all over the world, and I really want to make more friends!â Aurora explained.
Joelle listened attentively, though she suspected Auroraâs enthusiasm might be based on what sheâd heard from others rather than her own independent thoughts. While she valued Auroraâs input, she maintained a healthy skepticism and didnât feel compelled to simply nod along.
Adrian set aside his book and lifted Aurora into his arms. âWeâll think about Riverdale Elementary as one option, sweetheart. But letâs explore other schools too. You might find another that captures your heart just as much. Weâll make the decision together, okay?â
âThank you, Dad!â Aurora beamed, nodding in agreement. With a warm smile, Joelle announced, âNow, off to bed! Youâre getting big, and big girls need their sleep.â
âYeah! I can do it. Iâm strong and brave!â Aurora cheerfully skipped along, keeping herself motivated as she headed back to her room.
Joelle wiped her hands clean of the dayâs work and approached Adrian. âRiverdale Elementary really does have a great reputation. Isnât it one of the best schools in the country?â
Adrian nodded thoughtfully. âI actually spoke to Agate today, and she said the same thing. She highly recommended it.â
Joelle harbored some reservations. âBut Fred and Gracieâs son attends that same school. We left things quite badly with them. Stephen even vowed to cut all ties with us. You hardly speak to Fred when you see him, donât you? And I consciously avoid Gracie whenever our paths cross.â
Adrian rubbed his forehead wearily. âIf Aurora feels thatâs the right place for her, we shouldnât let old grudges sway our decision.â
âIndeed. We shouldnât drag the kids into adult squabbles. They donât deserve that burden.â Joelle nodded in agreement and settled into bed. Adrian drew her close, draping his arm around her as he reached to switch off the bedside lamp.
The following day, Katherine fulfilled her commitment by delivering a fruit basket to Lina in the hospital.
Had she known about Linaâs stitched lip, she would have insisted the shopkeeper leave out the pineapple.
âI heard about your accident, so I came on Shawnâs behalf to bring a little comfort. Though he wasnât required to assist, you did reach out to him for help.â
Linaâs face, marred by bruises and swelling, was difficult to interpret as she maintained steady eye contact with Katherine. She appraised Katherine meticulously, examining her from head to toe, noting everything from her dress to her accessories. Back then, she had the opportunity to lead a life similar to Katherineâs, to share the same love and affection.
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