That sounds amazing! And Dulcie, Ive got a little surprise for you-Ill show youter.


    Surrounded by their warmth, Dulcie couldnt possibly say no, so she agreed.


    They all piled into the car and set off toward the restaurant.


    Destinees constant questions about whether Dulcie still felt any pain made the ride anything but dull, filling the car with her chatter.


    However, midway through the drive, Lucindas phone rang, and her expression grew serious as she took the call.


    Got it.


    Ill be there right away, she said before hanging up.


    Turning to Dulcie with a regretful smile, she said, Im so sorry, Dulcie. Something urgent came up at work, and I need to head to the office.


    I wont be able to join you for the celebration.


    Dulcie waved it off with a smile.


    Its no problem, Lucinda.


    Workes first.


    Dont worry, Ill handle the kids.


    Before stepping out of the car, Lucinda turned to speak to her children, holding their hands.


    You two behave and listen to Dulcie and Sally, okay? Daddy and I wille to pick you up after work.


    In his best grown-up voice, Colby responded, Dont worry, Mom. Ill take care of Destinee, the little troublemaker.


    Hey, Im not a troublemaker! Destinee pouted.


    Im almost six now! Im about to graduate from kindergarten-Im not going to cause any trouble! she added, proudly patting her chest.


    Lucinda left, reassured by her childrens promises.


    In the drivers seat, Ryder chuckled as he watched the yful bickering in the rearview mirror.


    Sally teased, Destinee, I heard youve been bossing the boys around at kindergarten! When did you turn into such a little queen bee? Destinee, hands on her hips, shot back immediately.


    Sally, who told you that? I didnt bully anyone! I just set those boys straight because they were picking on the other kids.


    Dont go spreading Lies about me! She added, with a defiant nod, Anyway, Mommy and Daddy said that when I graduate from kindergarten, Ill go to primary school with Colby. Hes gonna protect me.


    Right, Colby? Colby, calm andposed beyond his five years, nodded in agreement.


    As Dulcie braided Destinees hair, she smiled warmly, When you start primary school, Ill drive you there myself.


    Destinees eyes lit up.


    Okay! Their chatter filled the car withughter until they finally arrived at the restaurant.


    Dulcie took the children by the hand as they walked inside, though her heart sank a Little when she realized where they were.


    Coincidentally, the restaurant Sally had booked was the very ce where Dulcie had endured painful memories twice before.


    For a moment, her face stiffened, but she remained silent.