Just as Xavier reached Elara, he hesitated. He bit his lower lip, his flushed face showing a mix of excitement and restraint. Then, with wide, innocent eyes, he grinned at her. "Xav, I haven't seen you in so long! Can I give you a hug?" Merida spread her arms wide toward Xavier.Xavier looked a little nervous, his tiny fingers clutching the edge of his sleeve.He gave Merida a tiny nod.The next second, as they hugged, Xavier's feet suddenly left the ground. Merida had lifted him up with ease, bouncing him a couple of times as if testing his weight."Xav, you're heavier than before! Looks like you've been eating well!"Xavier's face turned beet red. At that moment, a row of uniformed staff members nodded in perfect synchronization. "Good evening, Mr. Leonard, Ms. Jones, and Ms. Merida." "Good evening," Elara responded politely. Still confused about what was happening, Merida instinctively followed suit, nodding back with practiced grace. Elara exchanged qui
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