205 : Leaving Them Behind

VERENA

I smile seductively. “Sounds like a plan.”

All of us enjoy the day together, filled with laughter, games, and celebration. I take many pictures of us, especially Elijah, Ezra, Venus, and me wearing Santa hats. Venus and Ezra look so cute, but Elijah looks annoyed in all the pictures because he doesn't like wearing the Santa hat.

I chuckle as I stare at the pictures on the phone. I place the phone on the bed and look at the bags with all our clothes packed. A day has passed, and I have made my decision. I’m going to move back with Elijah and take the kids with me.

There’s a slight knock at the door, and I find Dad standing there. He has a stoic face, but there’s sadness in his eyes.

“Are you done packing?” he asks, and I nod.

“Dad, why don’t you come with us and stay there for a few days? I have handed Norton and Kyla the job of running the pack under my surveillance. There’s the pack barrier too that I created. So you don’t have to worry about anything,” I mutter, hoping he’ll