Chapter 76

Amelia

I sat on the couch, engrossed in a game of blocks with Misty, my giggling daughter. Her bright eyes sparkled as she carefully stacked the colourful cubes, only to knock them down.

Just as I was about to rebuild the tower, the door swung open. Misty's head jerked up, her face shining with excitement.

"Aunty Hayley!" she shrieked, dropping the blocks and launching herself off the couch.

I smiled, watching Hayley stride into the room, a warm smile on her face. Her eyes locked onto Misty, and she opened her arms wide.

"Hey, munchkin!" She exclaimed, sweeping Misty into a tight hug.

I rose from the couch, exchanging a warm greeting with her. "Hey, girl! Come on in."

Misty wriggled free from Hayley's grasp, tugging on her hand. "Aunty Hayley, play with me!"

She laughed, letting Misty pull her toward the scattered blocks. "No, no baby. Not today."

I watched as Misty bounced around Hayley, and I gently intervened. "Darling, let your Aunt Hayley settle down first, okay?" I said, smiling