After the cozy breakfast and morning chaos, Lando suggested they take Gemma to the park for some fresh air. It was a sunny day, with a gentle breeze that made it perfect for a family outing. Lily quickly packed a small bag with snacks, water bottles, and Gemma's favorite toys, while Lando grabbed a picnic blanket from the closet.
Gemma, bouncing with excitement, tugged on Lando's hand. "Daddy, hurry! Park, park!"
"I'm coming, boss," Lando teased, lifting her onto his shoulders as she squealed with delight.
The park was bustling with families, joggers, and couples enjoying the beautiful weather. Lando found a shady spot under a large oak tree where they could set up their little picnic. Lily spread out the blanket while Gemma darted off to explore the nearby playground.
"Watch her, Lando!" Lily called out as she arranged the snacks.
"I'm on it," Lando said, keeping a close eye on Gemma as she climbed up the slide.
"She's fearless, isn't she?" Lily remarked, settling onto the blanket.
"Wonder where she gets that from," Lando replied, sitting down beside her. He leaned back on his hands, sunglasses perched on his nose, looking effortlessly relaxed.
Lily smirked. "Definitely not me. You're the one who drives at 300 kilometers an hour for fun."
"Touché," Lando said with a grin.
After a while, Gemma came running back, her cheeks flushed and her curls wild from all the running around. She plopped down onto the blanket, grabbing a juice box from the bag.
"Having fun, love?" Lily asked, brushing a stray curl out of Gemma's face.
Gemma nodded enthusiastically. "Lots of fun! I went down the slide, and I saw a doggie!"
"A doggie, huh?" Lando said, chuckling. "Did you say hi?"
"No, but I waved!" Gemma replied proudly.
The three of them spent the afternoon lounging on the blanket, playing games, and taking turns chasing Gemma around the park. Lando even joined a small group of kids for a quick football match, much to Gemma's delight. She clapped and cheered loudly, calling out, "Go, Daddy!"
"Think she's my biggest fan," Lando said, returning to the blanket and collapsing beside Lily.
"Obviously," Lily said, handing him a bottle of water. "But don't get too comfortable. She's already planning your next adventure."
Sure enough, Gemma tugged on Lando's arm. "Daddy, swings!"
"Alright, alright," Lando said, letting himself be pulled up. "Coming, boss."
Lily watched them with a smile, her heart swelling as she saw the bond between them. Lando pushed Gemma gently on the swing, her laughter echoing through the park. It was in moments like these that Lily felt the fullness of their little family, the simple joy of being together.
As the sun began to set, they packed up their things and headed home, with Gemma dozing off in her car seat.
"She's going to sleep well tonight," Lando said, glancing at Lily as he drove.
"So will we," Lily said with a laugh, resting her head against the window.
When they got home, Lando carried Gemma upstairs to her room, tucking her in with her favorite stuffed bunny. He kissed her forehead gently before joining Lily downstairs.
"Perfect day," Lando said, pulling Lily into his arms.
"It really was," Lily agreed, resting her head on his chest.
YOU ARE READING
the IT girl
RomanceLily Ralph, a 23-year-old Greek model, is strong-willed and independent. Growing up in an abusive household, she developed deep trust issues, making it hard for her to let people in. Despite her tough exterior, there's a vulnerability underneath, on...