Chapter 912

Noah, still masked, stepped into view.

Averi’s eyes widened with surprise and delight.

Without hesitation, he released his mother and bounded eagerly around the car, launching himself straight into Noah’s arms.

“Mr. Noel!” Averi’s voice trembled with joy. Noah caught him easily, lifting him up as a genuine smile spread beneath his mask.

Averi seemed heavier than the last time they’d met. Noah gently bounced the little boy in his arms. “You’ve gotten heavier, Averi.”

Averi wrapped his arms around Noah’s neck and nestled into his shoulder. Then he pulled back, gazing up at Noah with wide, sparkling eyes. “Will you play with me?”

Noah melted at the sight of that adorable face. He agreed without hesitation. “Of course.”

He glanced down the street, catching sight of a new amusement park near the hotel. “I heard there’s a newly-built amusement park nearby. Would you like to check it out with me, Averi?”

“Amusement park?” Averi echoed, his eyes shining with excitement. His cheeks flushed as he clapped his hands. “Yes, please! I want to go to the amusement park!”

He turned to Sadie, lips pursed in hopeful anticipation. “Mom, you should come with us! Please, Mom?”

Sadie saw her son’s pleading expression and felt her resolve melt. She could never bear to disappoint him. With a soft, resigned sigh, she nodded. “All right.”

“Yay! Mom, you’re the best!” Averi kicked his feet in excitement, leaning back into Noah’s embrace. The three of them climbed back into the car.

With Averi there, the mood lightened considerably. Even the driver relaxed, grateful for the newfound peace in the car.

: ?ν?

When they arrived at the park, Averi could hardly contain himself. He hopped out and grabbed Noah’s hand, dragging him eagerly through the entrance.

For once, Noah let go of his usual reserve, patiently indulging the little boy’s every whim. The carousel, bumper cars, the little train—Averi dashed from ride to ride, laughter echoing in his wake.

Sadie followed a short distance behind, her phone ready to capture every rare moment of joy and warmth.

Noah held Averi, the boy’s laughter ringing out like a bell in spring—bright, clear, and infectious. Sadie couldn’t help but smile radiantly as she watched them together. To any passerby, they looked like a perfect, happy family of three.

None of them noticed the man standing beneath a large tree nearby, his cap pulled low to conceal his face. A professional camera hung in his hands. Click. Click.

After snapping several shots, the man swiftly packed up his equipment and made his way to a quiet corner of the park. With efficient movements, he transferred the photos to his phone, carefully selected the best ones, and sent them off.

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