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?

into a warm bug before pressing a light kiss

away almost immediately, though his gaze

quelled half of Alex’s simunering irritation, but not

hug Brian anymore,” Alex declared, his voice serioas despite its childish pitch. “And if Brian and I fight, you can only help me.”

surprised at the abrupt demand,

with a slight smile, “I think I understand now.

Alex frowned. “What?”

said, her tone light but teasing. You don’t want anyone else taking your place in my heart,

looked momentarily caught off guard, then crossed his arms again. “There’s no such thing. I know

back a laugh, finding the situation

to diffuse

of this. Let’s get both of you out of

the opportunity to push Erian aside, stepping closer to

father

21.7

Chapter 24

but caught himself, brushing off the shove without a

carried a note of firm reprimand. “That’s not how we treat our classmates. You could have hurt Brian.” She knelt to look him

pavement, his face a mix

he muttered, not meeting her gaze. “But I just don’t like it when you’re

you when

gave a reluctant nod.

“Now, let’s

grudgingly.

smirked. “Not a chance. I’ll

a glare, their rivalry reignited but

boys, it’s almost time for class. Let’s get you both back to the classroom.”

approached the door, Alex suddenly wrapped his arms tightly around Nora, holding on as if

gently, brushing a hand over

lately,” he admitted in a quiet voice. “I miss when you’d say good morning every

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255