Chapter 24

Nor a knelt beside him, her hands resting gently on his arms.

“Alez, listen to me,” she said softly. “You’re my son. No one could ever take your place in my heart. But you have to understand, being kind to others doesn’t mean I love you any less.”

Alex sniffled, avoiding her gaze. “It feels like you do,” he muttered.

Nors pulled him into a hug, holding him tightly.

“I’m sorry if I’ve made you feel that way, I’ll do better, Alex. But you have to meet me halfway, okay? No more pushing people away or picking fights. Can we agree on that?”

Alex hesitated, then gave a small nod. “Okay,” he murmured.

Nora smiled, brushing a stray tear from his cheek. “That’s my boy. Now, let’s go talk to your coach. I’m sure he’s eager to see what you’ve got today.”

The schoolyard was a swirl of activity, filled with the laughter and shouts of children enjoying their morning.

Nora stood to the side, taking in the vibrant scene with a calm demeanor.

The sunshine filtered through the trees, casting dappled patterns on the pavement as children darted between their parents and friends.

Just as she turned to check on Alex and Brian, a familiar tug on her sleeve drew her attention.

Alex stood before her, his expression a mix of irritation and expectation

“You forgot something.” he said firmly, his small arms crossed over his chest.

Nora tilted her head, amused but playing along. “Did I now? What did I forget?”

“A hug,” Alex said, his lips pressed into a pout.

“And a kiss,” he added, glancing pointedly at Brian, who stood quietly by her side.

Nora chuckled softly. Of course, how could I forget?

bug before

to melt away almost immediately, though his gaze flicked provocatively

half of Alex’s simunering irritation, but not

childish pitch. “And if Brian and I fight, you can only help me.”

at the abrupt demand, before realization

slight smile, “I think I understand

Alex frowned. “What?”

teasing. You don’t want anyone else taking

momentarily caught off guard, then crossed his arms again. “There’s no such thing. I know I’m your favorite child.”

back a laugh, finding the situation both exasperating and endearing

time to diffuse

of the crowd before

took the opportunity to push

father and son went crazy

21.7

Chapter 24

stumbled slightly but caught himself, brushing

have hurt Brian.” She knelt to look him in the eyes. “Especially if you’re going to be a future

against the pavement, his face a mix

her gaze. “But I just don’t like

anything away from you when

gave a

gently urged him. “Now, let’s make things

said grudgingly. “But I’m still going to beat you in

“Not a chance. I’ll

rivalry reignited but redirected to a more playful

almost time for class.

tightly around Nora, holding on as if he

gently, brushing

“I miss when you’d say

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