The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 182

Norton was the oldest child at the orphanage. In this place, the younger kids were usually the first to be adopted, leaving behind those like him-children who were either living with disabilities or, like Norton and his little brother, simply too old or too prickly in personality to catch anyone's eye.

"Why me?" he asked. Norton had overheard the entire conversation between the little girl and her father, but he couldn't understand why she wanted to choose

him.

He was already nine years old-the oldest one left here. There were so many other kids she could have picked.

He stood there in silence, until the little girl's triumphant voice broke through his thoughts.

"No real reason! I just like you. I want you to come home with me and play with me forever." She threw her arms around his waist, pressing her head against him like a little cat, nuzzling softly.

"Forever? Won't you get tired of me?" Norton squirmed at her touch, a bit ticklish, and took a step back to put a little distance between them.

seen on TV, and suddenly, she thumped her chest with determination. "I promise," she declared solemnly, "I'll take care of

care of me?" Norton couldn't help but smile

all, he was only nine-hardly in need of

can play with you every day, and pick

Norton laugh out

said through obvious reluctance, "Then...I guess I'll share my favorite cookies with you too. Even if

she

help but laugh again,

grinned, he suddenly felt a small, gentle hand slip into

girl gazing up at

you come home with me?" she asked, her voice soft and sweet, as

crouched down and scooped her into his arms, whispering in her ear, "Alright.

the little girl beamed and tugged him along to meet her