Adeline POV
The moment I stepped through the kindergarten gate, I barely had time to breathe before a small body crashed into me.
“Auntie!”
Myra’s arms wrapped around my neck so tightly I almost staggered. She pressed her cheek into me like she wanted to disappear into my coat. Her little voice came out shaky, almost like she’d been holding it in all day.
“My scarf burned,” she whispered. “But… I’ll make another one for you. I promise. I’ll make it better.”
My hands softened instantly around her tiny back. Even with her face buried in my shoulder, I could feel how sad she’d been as her aura felt bruised around the edges.
“Oh, sweetheart…” I rubbed slow circles on her spine, hoping she’d feel steadier. “You don’t have to rush. I’m happy with anything you make.”
She didn’t answer righ
