Chapter 3: Rivals

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Alena, Emma, and Lily had a smooth transition between Virginia and Washington

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Alena, Emma, and Lily had a smooth transition between Virginia and Washington. The blonde had found a nice apartment, as well as a daycare center, that was within walking distance of Belfry Towers.

Alena was currently holding each of her girls by the hand as they made their way to the center.

Emma then asked, "Where going, Mommy?"

"You and Lily are going to stay with Ms. Natalie while Mommy goes to work," Alena explained.

"Ms. Natalie!" Lily exclaimed, and Alena couldn't help but chuckle.





A few days after Alena and the girls had arrived in Hyperion Heights, Belfry had called with a daycare recommendation. Though Alena had understandably been skeptical, she realized Belfry had no real reason to be purposefully malicious toward her. So, she set off to the center, and she had found it to be amazing. The owner, Natalie Atwater, was incredibly sweet, and the girls adored her.





A few minutes later, Alena and the twins walked inside the center. Natalie greeted them with a smile.

"Hi, you guys! It's so good to see all of you again!"

"You too, Natalie," Alena responded as she smiled back.

Natalie then bent down on Emma and Lily's level and told them, "Hey, girls. Are you two ready for some fun?"

"Fun!" Emma and Lily both exclaimed.

Natalie nodded before she elaborated, "Some blocks have been set up. Why don't you two go build something pretty?"

Both girls nodded excitedly before running off to the other room, where Natalie's helper brought them to the blocks.

Alena then addressed Natalie, "I can't thank you enough for letting the girls stay here."

"Don't mention it. They're adorable, and I'm more than happy to help," Natalie assured her. The black-haired woman then continued, "Remind me what time you'll be picking them up?"

"I get off work at five, so it'll be about 10 after," Alena explained.

Natalie nodded in response before she spoke, "I will see you then," with a smile. Alena smiled and nodded in response before she walked out the door.

A few minutes later, Alena walked into Belfry Towers, her high heels clicking across the marble floor.

She greeted the receptionist before getting on the elevator. When she arrived on the top floor, she began making her way toward Victoria's office.

However, she was stopped by a woman with shoulder-length brown hair.

"I'm afraid you're not allowed into Mrs. Belfry's office without an appointment. Furthermore, she isn't here yet," the woman explained.

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