DEADLY DECEPTION

CHAPTER 3

Avery's POV

Maria and I gathered the children from the orphanage and some of the caretakers for our long-awaited trip to the park. The excitement in the air was palpable as we boarded the bus that would take us to our destination.

The park was a sprawling green space, with tall trees providing shade and colourful flowers blooming in every corner. The sound of children's laughter and the chatter of families filled the air. The scent of freshly cut grass and blooming flowers filled my nostrils as I stepped off the bus, a wide smile spreading across my face.

With a contagious energy, the children eagerly bounded towards the playground. I followed closely behind, cheering and laughing with them. The warmth of the sun on my skin and the softness of the grass beneath my feet made it all the more enjoyable as I joined the children on the swings and slides.

"Look at me, Avery!" Sarah called out, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She climbed up the ladder to the slide, her small hands gripping the rungs tightly.

I watched as Sarah slid down, her laughter echoing in the air. "That was amazing, Sarah! You're such a brave girl," I said, giving her a high-five.

Sarah beamed with pride, her dimples showing. "This is so much fun!"

Glancing around the park, I took in the sights and sounds. Families were scattered throughout, enjoying picnics and playing games. The smell of freshly cooked food wafted through the air, making my stomach growl.

Maria, with the help of the caretakers, had set up a picnic area under a large oak tree. The children eagerly gathered around, their eyes widening at the sight of the delicious spread before them. Sandwiches, fruits, and homemade cookies were laid out on the checkered blanket.

I sat down beside Sarah and Maria, taking in the vibrant colours of the food and the aroma that filled the air. "Maria, everything looks so delicious. Thank you for organizing this," I said, my mouth watering.

Maria smiled warmly. "It's my pleasure, my dear. Seeing the children happy brings me joy."

As we ate, the children laughed and chattered, their voices mingling with the sounds of birds singing in the trees. I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment as I looked around at the happy faces. I knew that this day would be one that the children would remember for a long time.

After the picnic, the group spread out across the park, engaging in various activities. I found myself near a small pond, where a group of children were feeding the ducks. Their giggles and squeals of delight filled the air as the ducks quacked and splashed in the water.

I joined them, taking a handful of bread crumbs and tossing them into the pond. The children imitated my actions, their eyes wide with wonder as the ducks eagerly gathered around, nibbling at the crumbs.

"Look, Avery! The ducks like us!" one of the children exclaimed, pointing at the feathered creatures.

I laughed, my heart filled with joy. "Yes, they do! It's because you're all so kind and gentle."

The children beamed with pride, their eyes shining with innocence. As the day wore on, we explored the park further. We played tag, kicked around a soccer ball, and raced each other down a grassy hill. The park was alive with laughter and happiness, and I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of it.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the park, I gathered the children and their belongings. The day had been filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. The children's faces were flushed with happiness, their tired but content expressions reflecting the joy they had experienced.