HAPPINESS WE SEEK FOR

Chapter 11

They're having their 'adults' hang out in the morning whereas Elia's with her grandparents and Isa, Cardan and Maggie were at their own houses.

A private lounge in an upscale café, with soft lighting and a modern, minimalist design. Four sets of parents are gathered around a large oak table, discussing the future of their children over coffee and pastries.

Oh and Scarlett and Chris were there too because they are just involved in these parenting just as much.

"So... let's start by saying it out loud: how important is it that the kids are together? I know Cardan's not the easiest to motivate, and having familiar faces might help him ease back in." Arvio stated, somehow the parents decided for the kids to get in the same school

"I agree. Maggie's told me a thousand times that she wants to stick with Elia. I figured the transition back would be smoother for both of them if they're in the same place. And I assume Isa could use that kind of peer circle too—might keep him engaged beyond just online classes." Freda exclaimed as she glancing at Arvio knowingly

Jax leaning back in his chair, exchanging a glance with Andrea, his wife, before speaking "Isa prefers working solo after Elia's accident last year, but honestly? It's time he steps out of that bubble. Too much screen time isn't doing him any favors. And we'd feel better if he's around people we know—kids he's comfortable with. And we just know he'll be thrilled if he knows Elia is coming back to school and he'll be going with her too considering those two were two peas in a pod"

"We've discussed it—Isa has grown up with Maggie and Elia. Cardan's a bit more recent to the circle, but it's clear the kids have some sort of... bond. It makes sense to put them somewhere they can thrive together, socially and academically." Andrea said as she nods in agreement, her voice calm and measured like the skilled surgeon she is

"I've been keeping an eye on Elia's energy levels since the accident. I think going back to school now, with her friends by her side, will help her settle in. She's ready to challenge herself again. But the school needs to be accommodating. I'm not taking any risks with her recovery." Lizzie exclaimed as she knows it's for the best for her daughter but she also can't help but to worry knowing how much of a prodigy her daughter is. She didn't want Elia to be back in her old excessive studying manner

"Right. Elia's brilliant, but the pressure? It could sneak up on her. We need a place that doesn't just focus on grades but has the flexibility to support her physically, too." Sebastian said his concern out loud

"That's the thing—Cardan hasn't been in school since his mom passed. I don't want to throw him into something too intense right away. The boy is bright, but he needs a softer landing. He's still catching up on material he missed." Arvio stated as he said thoughtfully

"That's exactly why Maggie's school is perfect. It's private, but not rigid. They're used to kids with... unusual circumstances." Freda said with a grin and a confident smile

"They've handled child prodigies, athletes, and unconventional schedules. They'll give Cardan the space to rebuild without coddling him." Freda added as she cared about the children too. Somehow after Jamie's death, they grew closer and closer with each other, keeping checking on each other as well at any given moment.

"Freda, you're making this sound like an infomercial. But I'll admit—Maggie's school does have a reputation for being more... adaptable." Lizzie said,arching a brow at Freda, playful but not dismissive

Lizzie surely has done research on school and Maggie's school is one of Lizzie's top 3 in consideration.

"The school's ability to handle different learning styles is crucial. Isa needs that flexibility too—he's brilliant, but he gets bored quickly with traditional teaching. And I want to make sure there are challenging electives available, especially if Elia decides to dive into advanced math or science again." Andrea said thoughtfully as if working through a diagnosis in her mind. Honestly, they have to think this through. They're not gonna put the kids in any miserable positions in any way anymore that's for sure.