Chapter 10 After the Exchange


Still uneasy even after hopping into the taxi with Galatea, Caspian couldn't stop glancing back.

"Mom," he called out to Galatea. "You love me, right? No matter what happens, you won't abandon me, will you?"

Hearing the question, Galatea laughed gently, "Why the sudden doubt? I'm your mom. Even if the sky fell, I'd never leave you."

Caspian felt a surge of emotion at her words, his eyes brimming with tears. Orion had never said anything like that to him. "Thanks, Mom!"

Galatea chuckled and tapped the top of his head lightly.

After getting out of the car, Galatea held Caspian's hand as they entered the apartment building. Caspian had led a sheltered life, his world limited to a strict routine between school and home, and he hadn't ventured much elsewhere. The modest apartment seemed foreign to him. Was this really where his mom lived? Was she living in poverty?

Once inside, Caspian observed his surroundings. The place was smaller than he had anticipated, but the thought of living with the mother he held dear in his heart made any place acceptable.

"Mia, give me a hand. I'm going to grill some barbecue for Harry and Elisa," Galatea called out after changing her footwear.

"Awesome!" Elisa burst out of her room at the mention of barbecued food. "Mom's cooking-I can't wait!"

Caspian watched the joyous Elisa. Was this Harry's little sister? She was so fortunate and incredibly cute, too.

Galatea and Mia changed clothes and retreated to the kitchen, and a curious Elisa sidled up to Caspian, whispering, "Did Mom scold you?"

grasp her meaning but shook his head anyway. "No, Mom's really

genuinely surprised. "You've sneaked out twice already, and Mom didn't even

both times,

of his nightwear. "I've never seen these before. They're so soft. Did you buy them without

questions, Elisa suddenly sprang up. "Did you steal

calling out, "Harry, if you dare to take my savings, I'll

her pour a pile of coins from a piggy

save this little amount?" he asked plainly,

to the concept of money. His allowances were always hefty sums, six figures, and always just

"You said that fancy restaurants in Arizona have a starting price of $320

After counting the money, Elisa found nothing missing and breathed a sigh

these

"Yes, they're so soft."

nothing, he knew his dad had set up a bank account for him. He could simply go to the bank, use face recognition, and transfer

Anything else you need? I'll get it for you,"

Elisa fell silent.

scrutinizing him from head to toe with shock, Elisa inquired, "Harry, you

quickly assured her, "No, you're my sister.

something like

was about to ask something else,

Caspian let out a quiet breath of relief and hurried out. They sat down together, ready to eat. "It's my first

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