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32. Running Away

Author: Clara Joel
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-02 13:43:46

"Kelly, sweetie," I leaned down to her level and gently ran my hand through her hair. "I promise we'll come back another time, but Mom isn't feeling too well right now."

Kelly pouted, her bottom lip sticking out in disappointment. It tugged at my heart. I knew how much she had been looking forward to this trip, but I had to do what I had to do.

I took her hand softly, squeezing it gently. "I promise I'll make it up to you."

She sighed, her small hand resting on top of mine. "Okay, Mommy," she said with a hint of sadness in her voice. "But I really wanted to see the lions today."

My heart clenched. “I know, baby. We’ll come back soon, I promise.” I kissed her forehead, hoping that would ease the sting of disappointment. She gave me a weak smile, nodding in understanding, though I could see she was still upset.

Brenda shot me a look, silently asking if I was okay. I nodded, but I wasn’t sure how much longer I could keep up the charade of calm. Ivan and that woman, whoever she was, were
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