Ellie
My heart leaped with joy as I watched Lucas's face light up. "Uncle Aidan!" he squealed, running up to Aidan with his arms outstretched for a hug.
"Hey! What about me?" Ivy giggled, kneeling down and opening her arms wide.
Lucas hesitated for just a second before splitting his enthusiasm, racing into Ivy's embrace as well. "Aunt Ivy!" he shouted, wrapping his little arms around her neck.
I couldn't help but smile at the sight. Seeing them here felt like a small piece of normalcy returning to my life.
Aidan pulled me into a tight, protective hug. "Are you really okay?" he whispered, concern lacing his voice.
I nodded, pulling back to look at him. "I'm fine. Giovanni has been... considerate."
Aidan's eyes flicked to Giovanni, who was watching us with a guarded expression. "Good," he said, his tone clipped. "We're here to make sure it stays that way."
"Where is Elora? Is she in her crib?" Ivy asked. "I want to hold her."
