Chapter 9

Elara’s POV

“Auntie Elara is here!“Alice shouts, and in an instant, a small stampede rushes toward me.” Tiny arms wrap around my legs, my waist, anywhere they can reach. I smile radiantly before opening my arms to embrace them in a warm group hug.

I plant kisses on their foreheads, ruffling their hair. "I missed you all so much, my little angels."

"Auntie Elara, what are you doing here?" one of the younger girls asks, her wide eyes gleaming with curiosity.

I sense my heart rate increase. Gradually, I lift my eyes and observe Mother Annabelle and the other caretakers and older children gazing at me. Their faces are set into tight glares as their eyes move back and forth from me to Lorenzo.

“Children, come here,” Mother Annabelle calls, her arms open and her voice urgent. The kids hesitate for a moment, wondering what is happening, but the edge in Mother Annabelle’s tone leaves no room for stubbornness. She repeats herself, louder this time. “Now, children! Come behind me. We don't asso