HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 817

When Naomi and Cale returned from the hill, most of the Miller family had already gathered around the simple breakfast table they had set up near the campsite. The morning air was still cool. A thin layer of mist had not yet completely lifted from the surface of the river, while the aroma of coffee and warm food filled the air.

Grace was the first to spot them. "Mom! They're back!"

The little girl's voice immediately drew everyone's attention.

Naomi, who would normally feel uncomfortable being the center of attention, showed no strong reaction this time. She simply walked over and took the empty seat beside Eli.

It seemed like a simple thing, but Lydia noticed it immediately. Because just a few days ago, Naomi had still been keeping her distance from everyone. Still choosing to remain outside the family circle. Still looking like someone who was ready to leave at any moment.

Not anymore.

Naomi even responded to Chris's jokes. When the man complained that Josh had once again eaten most of the food that was supposed to be everyone else's share. Every now and then, she laughed. Occasionally, she added a comment of her own. And although it wasn't much, it was more than enough to make Lydia smile to herself.

Lydia didn't know what Cale and Naomi had talked about on the hill.

But she knew her husband very well.

And she knew Naomi well enough too.

Because of that, seeing the girl let out a small laugh at one of Chris's comments was enough to give her an answer.

At least something had changed this morning.

Everything happened naturally, without any pressure from anyone. As though she truly belonged to the group. And perhaps she was the most confused of all. Because just a few weeks ago, she had never imagined she could feel comfortable surrounded by a family this large.

The drive home was much quieter than the journey there. Fatigue had begun to replace excitement. And Grace was the first to give in.

At first, the little girl was still busy talking about all the things she wanted to do once they returned to the mansion. But gradually, her voice grew softer until it disappeared altogether.

Her head dropped onto Naomi's shoulder. She simply fell asleep. Naomi watched Grace's peacefully sleeping face for a few seconds. Then, without thinking, she shifted her position slightly so the little girl could lean against her more comfortably.

It was a simple gesture that Naomi herself didn't even notice, but Lydia did. And the woman smiled to herself once again. At least Naomi felt comfortable around her niece. And Lydia also felt that Naomi had enjoyed this camping trip.