55. Misunderstood

"Oh, my child. My beloved child ...." Edmund closed his eyes and kissed Sky's head repeatedly. His hands kept stroking her curly hair. "Remember that I always love you, hmm?"

Sky could no longer answer. Her mouth was too full of sadness. Only her head nodded faintly. Her little arms wrapped tightly around Edmund's neck.

Rachel quietly looked down and wiped her eyes. It was impossible for her not to cry when she saw the two people part. Even Hunter looked away, afraid of being carried away by his feelings and guilt.

When their emotions were back under control, Edmund planted one last kiss on Sky's forehead. After releasing her from his embrace, he approached Alice.

"Mrs. Palmer," his voice faltered again. Doubt weighed on his tongue. "May I hug you?"

Hunter instantly raised an eyebrow. He glanced at Rachel, curious about the response.

"You ... want to hug me?" Rachel asked awkwardly. Tension coated her face.

Edmund nodded. "If you don't mind. Just once, for the first and last ti