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."
