Even though the family was late, made it to the restaurant in perfect timing.
The GPS had led them through winding streets, past rows of quaint houses, until finally they arrived at their destination. As Davian parked the car the couple looked back to see that Winter was still asleep. "Should we just let her sleep," Davian proposed which Adeline agreed to.
They exchanged a knowing glance, aware that a well-rested Winter was a happier Winter.
Getting out and popping the truck, Davian took the time to set the stroller while Adeline took the time to get winter out. She moved with gentle care, not wanting to disturb the little girl's peaceful slumber.
Taking off her bonnet and putting it into her bag while fluffing out her curls that got smothered from her sleeping. The softness of her hair was a stark contrast to the tension building in Adeline's stomach.
Picking her up and placing a kiss on her puffed-up checks then placing in the stroller as Davian grabbed her bag and placed it underneath the stroller.
Putting her blanket on her legs since she was wearing a dress, locking up the car they made their way to the restaurant. Meeting up with the boys before the receptionist took them to the table where the rest of the family was waiting for them. The clatter of dishes, and the hum of conversation, all fell silent as they approached.
Walking up, the family was smiling from ear to ear only to have a look of shock written on their face as they saw Adeline in the back pushing and strolling up to the table.
Their faces were a picture of confusion, mouths agape. As the family settled in their seat Davian made sure to have that stroller facing away from her family so they wouldn't make Winter uncomfortable when she woke up from her nap. He positioned himself like a shield, ready to defend their little one.
"Hey everyone, how are you guys doing," Adeline spoke as if everything was normal. Her voice was light, a stark contrast to the weight of the moment.
Nothing but silence was heard until Davian's mother, Siara spoke up. "I must be losing my mind we just saw you guys last month, and you guys were pregnant the whole time. No that can't be she's too big to be just born." her mouth moved rapidly as her mind was thinking. Her brow was furrowed, her eyes darting from Adeline to Davian and back again.
Her husband, Zade grabbed her hand so she could calm down before she caused herself to have a stroke. His touch was soothing, a silent plea for patience. Adeline looked at her husband, giving her a nod before she started. He was her rock, her partner in every sense of the word.
"No I was not pregnant but, this is going to be our newest family member starting next week. Me And davian have decided to adopt this little one, Any questions let me be clear. I won't be taking any disrespect from any of you about her." she said with a smile but they knew that smile meant something else. It was a warning, a promise that she would not hesitate to defend her daughter.
"we'll that's great news isn't everyone," Zade spoke up causing everyone to agree with him immediately. Taking that as a sign to move on the family finally started ordering appetizers and entrees.
As the night moved on the atmosphere was back to a calm state, as the family engaged in a discussion. Laughter rang out, mingling with the clatter of silverware against plates. Since the stroller was facing Davian, he could see winter waking up. Her small hands flexed, her eyelashes fluttering open.
He was reaching down to take her out of the stroller. He moved, not wanting to startle her, and sat her on his lap and placed the blanket on her legs. She looked around, taking in the unfamiliar faces, before settling her gaze on Davian. A look of trust was in her eyes.
By this time everyone was looking at winter, taking in her natural beauty. Gasps of delight filled the air, followed by a chorus of "awws". Her big brown eyes sparkled, drinking in the attention. A small smile played on her lips, a hint of shyness.
They were all in awe until, charlotte which was Davian's brother's Miro his wife spoke up Causing everyone to have a sour mood afterward.
Her voice was like a splash of cold water, a stark contrast to the warm atmosphere. The joy and laughter that had filled the air just moments before seemed to deflate, like a popped balloon.
"Oh, so you're adopting a mixed child. I feel for you guys." Her tone was condescending, a hint of judgment in her words. Her gaze flicked to Winter, a look of pity in her eyes.
The table fell silent, all eyes on Charlotte. A look of shock was on their faces, mouths agape. It was as if they had all been punched in the gut, the wind knocked out of them. Davian's grip on Winter's hand tightened, a surge of protectiveness washing over him. He felt like a bear ready to defend his cub. A growl threatened to erupt from his throat, his anger simmering just below the surface.
Adeline was the first to speak, her voice icy. A calm had settled over her, a quiet fury burning in her eyes. "Excuse me?" she said, her words dripping with venom. Her gaze was fixed on Charlotte, a challenge in her stare.
