He held her hands pulling her close. " Always.."
Lisa gave him that natural genuine smile that he always liked.
" It's getting late, let me drive you back home." He asked.
Lisa nodded and they both went to his car.
When they reached her place, Canary offered to walk her to the door.
As they reached it, Lisa turned to him, ready to thank him and send him off quickly before anyone saw.
But Canary wasn't in a rush. He lingered, his gaze soft as it met hers.
"You work too hard, Lisa," he murmured. "Don't forget to rest."
She smiled, feeling the familiar warmth of his concern. "I'll try. Thanks for bringing me home."
"You don't have to thank me," he said, stepping closer. His hand gently cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing her skin.
He slowly bent to her and kissed her, his lips captured hers in a tender kiss. It was soft and lingering, a promise and a good night all in one.
When he pulled back, She smiled again.
"Good night, Lisa," he said, his voice low and full of affection.
"Good night," she whispered.
As she stepped inside, she turned to look at him one last time.
He stood there with that signature grin, watching her until the door closed. Lisa leaned against it, her lips still tingling from his kiss.
—-
Canary arrived back home and found Lucy reading a magazine.
He walked in, kissing her forehead.
Lucy set down her magazine, her sharp eyes studying him. "How did it go?"
"Great. The event was a success, and Andersons Group left a solid impression."
She smiled, pleased. "And your girlfriend, Was she there?"
" Mmm, I had a good time with her ." Canary shrugged.
" I still wonder who that girl is. I can't wait to know her." Lucy spoke.
" Just very soon.."
Lucy smirked knowingly but didn't press. "Alright, get some rest. You've had a long day."
"Goodnight, Mom," he said, heading upstairs with a faint smile.
***
The following day, Lisa went to the orphanage as usual and spent time with Stella and the children.
You've been quiet today," Stella said, her voice warm and inviting.
Lisa stared into her cup, her fingers tracing its rim. "I was just thinking… about my parents."
Stella glanced at her, her expression thoughtful. "It's been a while since you mentioned them."
Lisa sighed, her gaze distant. "I can't help but wonder—are they dead? Or are they out there somewhere? Did they ever try to find me? Did they care?"
Stella placed a comforting hand on Lisa's shoulder. "It's natural to wonder. But Lisa, you've built such a strong, beautiful life despite the unknowns. That says so much about who you are."
Lisa nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "I know. But sometimes, I just wish I had answers. Even if it's painful."
Stella's grip on her shoulder tightened briefly in reassurance. "
" Maybe those answers will come one day. And if they don't, know that you've always had people who love and cherish you, like these kids—and me."
The words of encouragement put a smile on Lisa's face.
She stayed at the orphanage till the following Sunday where she attended the church service and after she helped Stella in re Organising the after while the other people and the kids walked out of the church.
Later, They walked out of the church only to find the group of children running past them, their small hands clutching backets filled with water.
"What on earth are they up to now?" Lisa asked, raising an eyebrow.
Stella chuckled. "Let's find out. This looks like mischief."
Following the lively group, they rounded the corner toward the orphanage and stopped in their tracks at the sight before them.
The kids were busy scrubbing down a sleek black car with soap suds and water splashing everywhere.
And right in the middle of it all was Canary, laughing as he helped a boy lift a bucket to rinse off the hood.
His shirt was slightly damp, his sleeves rolled up, and he looked as though he was having the time of his life.
"Canary?" Lisa exclaimed, her voice a mix of surprise and disbelief.
Canary had kept and fulfilled his promise.
He turned at the sound of her voice, a broad grin spreading across his face. "Hey, Lisa! Perfect timing. You can help us finish up."
Lisa folded her arms, trying to suppress a smile. "What are you doing?"
"Teaching the kids a valuable lesson about hard work," he said, gesturing to the busy little group. "And my car needed a wash."
Stella couldn't contain her laughter. "I've seen plenty of things at this orphanage, but this might top the list."
One of the younger children piped up, "Mister Canary said we could earn money for ice cream if we helped!"
Lisa shook her head, walking closer. "You bribed them?"
"It's not a bribe," Canary said, feigning innocence. "It's incentive."
Lisa rolled her eyes, but her heart softened as she watched the kids giggle and splash water at each other. "Fine. But don't come crying to me if they soak you."
At that moment, one of the kids accidentally tipped a bucket, sending a wave of water over Canary.
He froze for a second before bursting into laughter, wiping his face with his sleeve.
Lisa laughed. "Told you."