6: Lucas and His Efforts
1060 Words
Lavender's POV
"I'm sorry for what I said earlier, Lucas." I glanced at him nervously as we strolled through the park, heading toward Angel's location.
Lucas stopped walking and rubbed his temple, exhaling. "I honestly have no idea why you did that, but I know you have your reasons."
I swallowed hard, guilt twisting in my chest. "I really am sorry, Lucas. I just can't let anyone know about Angel except for the people I trust. "My voice was barely above a whisper. "Look, Lucas—"
"It's fine, Lavender." He cut me off, turning to face me. One brow lifted, his expression curious yet patient. Lucas had always been patient with me.
The sincerity in his voice made my chest tighten. I simply nodded, afraid that if I spoke, my voice would betray me. Instead, I gestured toward the photo booth where Angel was waiting, happily playing while she waited for us.
"Let's go enjoy the booths and other stalls," I uttered with a faint smile.
When we reached the photo booth, Angel immediately grabbed Lucas's hand. "Lucas, you're back! Are you taking pictures with Mommy and me?"
Lucas crouched down to her level, flashing a warm smile. "Of course, little princess. Let's make them fun, okay?"
"Okay!"
I watched as Angel eagerly pulled him toward the booth, her laughter filling the air. I followed them, and we struck different poses, capturing the moment together. Angel's joy was contagious, her innocence shining through. Watching her like this, happy, and carefree, reminded me of why I had fought so hard to protect her.
The rest of the afternoon passed in a blur. We spun around on rides, splashed through the water area, and played carnival games. Angel's laughter mixed with Lucas's, creating a melody of happiness I hadn't heard in a long time.
By the time the sun began to set, I felt my exhaustion creeping in. I noticed Angel's small steps slowing as we made our way toward the park's exit. She was already tired.
"I just need to use the restroom before we leave," I muttered, pausing near the entrance. "Lucas, can you watch Angel for a few minutes?"
"Of course," he replied, taking Angel's hand.
I heaved a deep sigh and walked into the nearest restroom. As I stood in front of the sink, I caught my reflection in the mirror. Everything about me was different. All different.
Four years ago, I looked like a broken woman, barely holding herself together while carrying Angel inside me. But today, the woman staring back at me was strong, resilient, and unshaken.
"This is the woman I built," I whispered, forcing a small smile.
I splashed cool water onto my face, the refreshing sensation grounding me. After drying my hands, I smoothed the loose strands of hair that had escaped my ponytail. It had been a good day, better than I expected.
Pushing the restroom door open, I stepped back into the warm evening air, only to nearly bump into someone.
"Oh! I'm so sorry," I hastily said, stepping back.
"Lavender?" a familiar voice responded.
I looked up and found Miriam standing in front of me. "Hey, it's you again, Miriam."
She tilted her head, smiling. "What are the odds of running into you again? Did you enjoy your day here?"
"Yes, I did, Miriam. This park is amazing."
Her smile widened. "I've been working on this expansion for months. It's part of a new initiative to bring more family-friendly spaces to the area."
I nodded, genuinely impressed by her hard work. I have always known Miriam as a hardworking woman despite being in a family of tycoons and billionaires. She would never rely on anyone.
"August is actually here, too," she added and faintly smiled. "He wanted to check on—"
The name hit me like a punch to the gut, but I kept my expression neutral.
"Oh," I murmured, forcing indifference into my tone. "I see."
As if my thoughts had summoned him, August appeared in front of us. His usual confident aura surrounded him, and for a split second, my heart pounded, whether from irritation, anxiety, or something else entirely, I wasn't sure.
Damn! This jerk!
"Miriam, I'll be heading out now," he called, then stopped when he saw me. His brows lifted slightly before he smiled. "Miss Greene, what a surprise."
Miriam smirked. "Miss Greene? Are you married now, Lavender?"
I quickly shook my head. "No. No. Well... it's a long story." I straightened my posture, glancing toward the exit. "Anyway, I need to go. My cousin is waiting for me."
Without waiting for a response, I stepped past them, my heart racing. I couldn't let my thoughts wander down that road. Not now.
"Mommy's here!" Angel's excited voice rang through the air as she ran toward me, tugging on my shirt. "Mommy, I'm tired. Let's go home and sleep."
I sighed softly and rubbed her hair. "Of course, darling. I'm sorry for making you wait."
Angel ran ahead to our car, her energy still surprising despite her exhaustion. I adjusted my stance and turned to Lucas.
"She really had a great time today," I said softly, breaking the silence. "It's been a while since I've seen her this happy."
Lucas glanced down at Angel, a small smile playing on his lips. "She's a special kid, Jade. You're doing an amazing job with her."
His words caught me off guard. For a moment, I didn't know what to say. I shifted on my feet, brushing a stray lock of hair behind my ear.
"I really appreciate you coming with us today," I said, meeting his gaze. "I know an amusement park wasn't exactly part of your plans, but it meant a lot to Angel. And to me."
Lucas's eyes softened. "Lavender, you don't have to thank me. I'm here because I want to be. For both of you."
For a brief moment, we just stood there, the soft shine of the park lights twinkling behind us.
"Let's get her home," I finally said.
"Yeah," Lucas agreed.
As we walked toward the car, I glanced at him. He had been by my side for years now, always steady, always reliable. Maybe, just maybe, letting someone into my life again wasn't as terrifying as I thought.
But for now, my priority would always be Angel. And myself.
- Writer
