Aurelia let out a sigh of frustration, "William, this is where Arnold's heart is. He's not going back to Goldstone. Besides, he has gonna settle down someday, get hitched, start a new life with someone. He can't keep living like this."
Hearing this, William's heart sank even more, feeling like an orphan left in the cold, unloved and alone.
Aurelia pulled him into a warm embrace, "Come on now, honey. Let's not cry. Mommy will help you sneak your hair out."
Meanwhile, Kane had found Leopold. He was lounging in the parlor, sipping on coffee, engrossed in the latest issue of the "Business Weekly."
"Dad." Kane dashed over, taking a seat beside Leopold.
"Why aren't you out playing with the others?" Leopold asked with a gentle smile.
"They're all grabbing a bite, so I thought I'd come hang with you," Kane replied.
Leopold handed him a pastry, "Have a little snack, too."
Kane blinked, a hint of mischief flickering in his eyes.
"I think I'll go for some fruit."
He picked up an orange, peeled it and popped a segment into his mouth. After finishing, he cleaned his hands with a napkin. Then, mimicking William's way of sweet-talking Arnold, he snuggled up to Leopold and slid his tiny hands into his pockets.
"Dad, my hands are a bit chilly from the orange. Can I warm them up in your pockets?"
"Sure." Leopold chuckled, seemingly oblivious to Kane's little ploy.
Kane's hands fumbled around the empty pockets. William had said he saw Leopold slip a sealed bag with hair into his pocket.
Could Leopold have already stashed William's hair away? He withdrew his hands.
"Dad, I think I'll head up to my room for a bit."
"Okay," Leopold said, stroking Kane's hair affectionately. In his mind, Kane was the sweetest, most understanding.
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