The Queen's return

(Arielle's POV)

The day of our return had finally arrived. I stood in my room, taking one last look around. I had gotten ready earlier, packing all my belongings and Maverick's, into the suitcases Dwayne had gotten us. "Are you ready?" He called out, standing at the doorway.

"Yes, I think so," I replied, taking a deep breath.

"Alright, I'll get the suitcases," he said, already lifting one off the ground. "Maverick's in the car."

"Let me help you with one of those," I offered.

"No, you go ahead," He said, but I ignored him and carried one of the suitcases.

"You don't give up, do you?"

"No, I don't. Not when I learn from you."

We carried the suitcases to the car and Dwayne placed them in his car's trunk. He was driving us to the airport despite my protest.

We got into the car, with Dwayne getting behind the wheel. "Hey, are you okay, buddy?" He asked, turning to Maverick who was in the backseat. Maverick shook his head, his eyes misty. "I'll miss nanny Jessica."

"I know, champ. But you will get to face Time her always like she promised. Now cheer up, you're about to embark on a memorable journey."

That seemed to lift Maverick's spirits, and he began peppering Dwayne with questions about New York. Dwayne answered every one, his voice warm and reassuring, which only made it harder for me to ignore the knot tightening in my stomach. I couldn't shake the feeling that I might never see him again, despite his insistence that he would visit often.

At the airport, Dwayne helped us navigate the check-in security and other procedures.

"Take care of yourself, okay?" He said as we reached the gate.

"I will. Thanks for everything," I replied.

But as we shared a hug and made to leave, Maverick clung to Dwayne's leg.

"Please, come with us."

can't, little one. I have to work so I can get you lots of gifts.

Maverick nodded. "Promise not to

I promise," Dwayne

again,

miss you," he

miss you too,"

back my tears. I hugged Dwayne again,

a kiss

We got to our seats beside the window and strapped on our

and put on his favorite cartoon so I could have some moment of solitude to myself. As the plane took

wanted to leave behind three years ago. Would it still hold the same memories? Would I ever feel the same way again? Dwayne's words echoed in my mind: "Never say never." But deep down, I knew how fleeting promises could be. "Mama, are we there yet?" Maverick asked,

Almost," I smiled

tablet.

We were coming home.

*******

hours later, we arrived at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York. The long trip had already taken its

the Porter

as if an invisible force held me in place. I

only a little haggard, though that couldn't hide his elite and domineering temperament. What was he

of

whispered promises under starlit

But as I stood there, felt a I surprising lightness in my

my direction. Time slowed as our eyes met for

moment. My heart didn't

it fluttered with an unfamiliar calm. I quickly looked

flowing freely, each one a

memories

fade as I resumed

me blurred,

I spotted Mother and

mother exclaimed, rushing towards us, Ashley closely behind

engulfed us in a hug. Ashley joined in, hugging me

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