Stepped Up [COMPLETE]

13

As anticipated, the next day saw the early arrival of Jack's mother, Sandy, accompanied by her true mate, Daniel. In her mid-60s, Sandy possessed a timeless beauty, her brown hair still radiating vibrancy. Though a few wrinkles hinted at the passage of time, especially around her eyes, she maintained an air of grace and elegance. Of average height, she shared the same captivating eye colour with her son, Jack.

On the other hand, Daniel was a tall figure, though not matching Jack's imposing stature. Slender and bald, he exuded an air of wisdom and kindness. Despite being in his late 70s, he defied the signs of ageing, showcasing a youthful spirit. His grey eyes sparkled with warmth, complementing his sweet smile that spoke of a lifetime filled with experiences and love. Together, they formed a harmonious pair, their connection woven through the threads of time and shared moments.

"Hi, sweetie!" Sandy called to Jack as she went over to him, cupped his face and kissed him on the cheek.

"Hi mum, nice drive?"

"It was okay, thank you." She said as she let go of his face. "Where's this mate of yours?"

"She's right here," Jack said as he held his hand to me. I came forward and held out my hand for her to shake. "Mum, this is Hope."

"It's so nice to meet you," I said cheerily, and she shook my hand.

"You too, honey. You look so beautiful." She smiled at me. "Now, where's my grandbaby?"

"Elena!" My voice echoed through the house, and from the dining room emerged Elena. Adorned in her favourite purple dress and hair neatly tied up in a bow, she ran towards me. I extended my hand, and she joyfully took it in hers. "This is Elena," I introduced her to Sandy, lowering myself to Elena's level with a warm smile. "Elena, this is your Grandma Sandy and Grandpa Daniel," I said to Elena as I pointed to her Grandma and Grandpa.

"Hello, Grandma and Grandpa," Elena said as she gave them both a small wave.

"Oh, she is just darling!" Sandy cooed. "Can I have a hug?" Elena looked up at me, asking for my permission, and I gave her one nod. Elena let go of my hand, ran towards her new grandmother, and wrapped her arms around her neck. Sandywrapped her arms around Elena and picked her up. "Oh, Daniel, isn't she precious?"

"She is our perfect granddaughter," Daniel stroked Elena's hair and kissed Sandy's head.

"Shall we have lunch together?" Jack offered, and we all nodded as we headed into the dining room.

Elena adored playing outside on her brand-new playset with her grandfather and playing tea parties with her grandmother. Elena loved being read to by her grandmother before bedtime and tucked in by her new grandparents. It was like we didn't exist, but Jack and I enjoyed seeing her enjoy spending time with her grandparents.

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As the time approached for Elena to depart with her grandparents, I found myself in her room, organizing her suitcase while she enjoyed breakfast with her father. The footsteps entered the bedroom, triggering my magical senses into heightened alert. Prepared for a potential threat, I tensed, but as soon as I heard the familiar voice, I relaxed—it was Sandy.

"How's it going?" She asked as she came in and stood by the bed where Elena's suitcase was laid out.

"Alright, do you plan on taking her anywhere specific?"

"Like?"

"Swimming? Hiking? I am packing her some Wellington Boots, a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, and encase, but anything else?"

"Swimming might be an idea,"

"Okay," I said as I grabbed Elena's Frozen swimming costume and packed it. I finished packing her luggage and then packed a backpack full of books, toys, and a cuddly bear. I packed her a wash bag with a toothbrush, hairbrush, toothpaste, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and hair bands.