Chapter 197
Chapter 197
Seeing her act so affectionate, Serena laughed and teased, “Now that your dad is gone, you finally remember to hug me, huh? What, were you worried he would get jealous?”
At her words, a sly glint flashed through Alyssa’s eyes. Watching her act so lively now, Sereria felt even more confident that she could one day help her fully return to a normal life.
She had worried that Tara’s sudden reappearance would set back Alyssa’s progress. But clearly, they had all underestimated the little girl’s resilience.
“Come on,” Serena said. “The restaurant I booked today is supposed to be amazing. I have even asked Dr. Sutter, and he said you can have a little bit of ice cream.”
Alyssa had always been kept away from sugary treats because of her health, even though she craved them. So, the moment she heard that, her eyes sparkled.
“But not too much,” Serena added. “I’ll be watching you.”
When Alyssa nodded right away and looked up at her with that sweet, obedient gaze, Serena couldn’t help pinching her cheek before leading her into
the car.
The restaurant had a pleasant atmosphere. Serena had gone to get Alyssa some ice cream and portioned out a small cup just for her. Watching Alyssa slowly lick at it like a little kitten, she couldn’t help but smile.
After they finished their meal, Serena hesitated for a moment before saying, “Alyssa, I already asked your dad about this, and he said it’s fine for me to take you to visit the director from the orphanage.
“But I still want to know what you think.”
Serena had spoken to Nate about Alyssa’s situation. He mentioned that if Alyssa could spend more time around people she trusted, especially those she had known when she was little, she might gradually build some resistance to Tara’s presence.
So, after thinking it over, Serena and Keith figured that the people from the orphanage fit that criteria best.
Serena knew Tiana well and knew she was always kind to every child. With Alyssa being so sweet, Serena figured Tiana would be delighted to see her.
Even so, Serena still wanted to know if Alyssa actually wanted to go.
Alyssa gave a quick nod, not even stopping to think. She was certain Serena would never do her wrong, so she was happy to go wherever Serena wanted
to take her.
Seeing how obedient she was, Serena let out a soft sigh and gently reminded her, “Right now, I’m doing this for your sake. But Alyssa, you have to remember, adults can be really awful sometimes.
“Even people who seem close to you can’t always be trusted with everything.”
Alyssa looked like she didn’t really get it.
Noticing how clueless Alyssa seemed, Serena sighed softly before taking her by the hand.
In any case, she would never do anything to hurt Alyssa. She figured there was plenty of time to teach her those things later. For now, it was better to let her just be a happy, carefree little girl.
Serena took Alyssa to the hospital. Tiana had been doing much better lately and was even able to get out of bed and walk around on her own. As soon as she saw Serena with Alyssa in tow, a big smile lit up her face.
16.10 Mon, 21
Chapter 197
“Seri, what brings you here? And this little one… don’t tell me she’s your daughter?” Tiana looked at Alyssa, sensing something familiar about her though she couldn’t quite place it.
Serena walked over with Alyssa and shook her head. “Alyssa was one of the kids adopted from the orphanage. Take a closer look. Does she ring a belf?”
Tiana studied Alyssa’s face and suddenly seemed to remember. “Wait, is this Alyssa?”
Tiana could hardly believe it. After all, Alyssa’s case had always been a bit unique. Among all the children at the orphanage, she was one of the lucky few. Even though she had health problems, she still managed to find a family.
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.

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