𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝑰𝒏 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆

𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛 28

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the situation settle around me. "Looks like we're in for a fun night, huh?" I said, forcing a smile as I bent down to greet Maya and Matteo. They giggled, their innocent excitement bubbling over.

"¿Vamos a jugar?" Matteo asked, his bright eyes wide with anticipation. Are we going to play?

"Claro que sí! We've got games, snacks, and a whole night ahead of us," I replied, glancing at Sophia, who was still recovering from the sudden departure of her sister.

"Do you have a plan?" she asked, her expression a mix of amusement and challenge as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

"Absolutely. First, we need to get these two settled. What do you think? A movie night or board games?" I suggested, standing tall and trying to exude confidence.

Sophia's laughter rang out, filling the kitchen with warmth. "They'll probably pick the movie. You know how they are."

"Fine, movie it is!" I declared, ruffling Matteo's hair, which only made him squeal with delight.

As the kids dashed off toward the living room, Sophia leaned against the counter, watching the chaos unfold. I stole a glance at her, appreciating how her presence seemed to radiate comfort. "How do you do it?" I asked, trying to keep the conversation light. "They seem to have boundless energy."

"Trust me, it's a lot of work," she chuckled. "But it's rewarding. I wouldn't trade these moments for anything." Her gaze softened, and for a moment, I could see the depth of her affection for them.

I nodded, feeling a rush of admiration for her. "You're amazing with them."

"Thanks." Her smile was shy but genuine, and it made my heart skip a beat. "But enough about me. You're the one jumping into this with both feet."

"Just trying to keep up," I replied, my voice teasing.

The kids had already started the movie, their squeals of laughter echoing from the living room. I felt an unfamiliar sense of normalcy settle in, like I was finally part of something larger than just myself.

"Do you think you'll survive the night?" Sophia asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I might need a crash course in kid-wrangling, but I think I can manage." I shrugged, stepping closer to her. "I'll take whatever tips you have."

She laughed again, the sound bright and infectious. "Alright, let's see what you've got."

As the movie played, I found myself sneaking glances at Sophia. She was fully engaged, laughing and gasping at every twist in the plot. I couldn't help but admire the way she let herself get lost in the moment.

"Can I have some popcorn?" Matteo piped up, breaking me from my reverie.

"Sure! I'll get it," I said, rising from the couch. As I walked to the kitchen, I could feel Sophia's eyes on me, her expression unreadable.

When I returned, the movie had taken a dramatic turn, and both kids were glued to the screen. "What's happening?" I asked, lowering myself next to Sophia.

"They're about to find the treasure," she whispered, her excitement contagious.

"Awesome!" I leaned in closer, feeling a spark of something electric between us. "Maybe we should go on a treasure hunt someday."

"Only if it's in the park and not a creepy cave," she replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

The night wore on, filled with laughter, playful banter, me looking like a princess somehow along the night, and the occasional scuffle over popcorn.