Now, all he could hope for was that their silent treatment would soon run its course.


    Another week went by, and it was time for Destinees kindergarten graduation, a momentous asion for the entire Payne family.


    Both Lucinda and Nathan cleared their schedules to be there for their daughters big day.


    As Lucinda stood in front of the mirror, carefully applying her makeup, Nathan gazed at her from behind, his eyes filled with warmth and affection.


    Catching his reflection in the mirror, Lucinda raised an eyebrow, meeting his eyes.


    Nathan stepped closer, slipping his arms around her waist and leaning down to murmur in her ear, Theres still ample time before the ceremony… I think we can spend a Little time making each other happy first.


    Before Lucinda could protest, Nathans intent was clear.


    She barely had time to react. After the intimacy, with a satisfied grin, Nathan calmly buttoned his shirt, looking asposed as ever.


    He bent down to nt a soft kiss on Lucindas cheek, clearly pleased with himself.


    Lucinda, however, was left feeling sore all over.


    She shot him a yful yet silent re, and then quickly finished her makeup, slipped into her clothes, and headed downstairs.


    Meanwhile, Colby was already seated downstairs, deeply engrossed in a game of chess on his tablet, his brow furrowed in concentration as he yed against the AI.


    Lucinda walked over and ced a gentle hand on his shoulder.


    Colby, we need to leave for Destinees graduation.


    You can finish your chess gameter, okay? Okay. Without a second thought, Colby nodded.


    He switched off the tablet and stood up, ready to go.


    The family quickly set off for the kindergarten.


    Upon arrival, the ce was alive with excitement.


    Parents clustered together, chatting animatedly about their kids, the energy of the day filling the air with joy and anticipation.


    Since Lucinda and Nathan seldom visited the kindergarten, most faces around them felt unfamiliar.


    After a brief wait of five minutes, a teacher in a fluffy dress stepped out, pping her hands to gather everyones attention.


    Please follow me inside in an orderly manner! Our little ones are eager to dazzle you! With the teacher leading the way, all the parents filed into the kindergarten, eventually settling in the assembly room where the ceremony was set to unfold. Once everyone found their seats, the lights dimmed, and soft music filled the room.


    A group of children, dressed head-to-toe in green, fluttered onto the stage like little leaves in a breeze.


    The kids danced with joy, their energy infectious.


    Spotting Destinee among them, Colby tugged on Lucindas sleeve.


    Mommy, look.


    Is that Destinee? Lucinda smiled and nodded.


    Yes, sweetheart, thats her.


    She has a few performances today.


    Lets keep our eyes peeled!