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Chapter 40

Author: Avvi Keller
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-29 19:42:56

Deciding it was time for some socialization, Emily descended the stairs, only to be met with a surprise. The living room was a sea of unfamiliar faces mingling with a few she recognized from previous gatherings. Her gaze instinctively darted around the room, searching for Oliver, but he was nowhere to be found.

The sudden silence as she reached the bottom step made Emily acutely aware of all eyes turning towards her. Oliver's mother, Odessa materialized beside her in an instant.

"You finally come down!"

Emily managed a shaky nod, forcing a smile. "I'm sorry, I fell asleep before I knew it"

"No worries, dear. Jet lag is the worst," Odessa added, before gently ushering her towards the assembled relatives. "Everyone, this is Emily! I want you to meet some of our family who couldn't make it last year. And this is our big family!"

Emily scanned the faces, searching for those around her age and Oliver's. A group of children played near a window, their laughter echoing through the room.

"Hi
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