Approaching the table, Hadley called out, “Are you nearly finished?”

“Almost there,” replied Colleen, cleaning Joy’s sticky hands and cheeks with a wet wipe. “You look just like a little raccoon!”

“I’ll take care of it.” Hadley smiled, taking over the task. She turned to Colleen and said, “Go freshen up and put on some lipstick. We’re heading out soon.”

“On it!” chirped Colleen, her voice cheerful.

Days off in a row were a rare treat for Colleen, so the three—Hadley, Colleen, and Joy—had planned a shopping spree together.

Once the dining table was cleared and everyone was ready, they set out for Evergrand Mall, where the crowd was already bustling.

Their first stop was the children’s clothing section. Afterward, they wandered through women’s boutiques, gathering bag after bag as they went.

When they walked by the ice cream shop, Colleen lit up and pointed. “How about a treat for all of us?”

Joy’s whole face brightened. “Yes, please!” she said, nodding so hard her hair bounced.

“I’ll sit this one out,” said Hadley, resisting the urge. She knew her period was due soon and wanted to play it safe.

“Two it is,” replied Colleen, taking Joy’s hand with a wink. “That means Joy and I get all the fun, right?”

“Yay!” Joy squealed.

Although there was a wide age gap, Colleen and Joy had shared a strong bond since their days in Blathe. Joy often chose her over Brady without hesitation.

With a hand pressed lightly to her abdomen, Hadley winced and spoke up. “I need a minute in the restroom.”

“Go on!” Colleen then motioned toward Joy. “Come on, Joy! Let’s grab our ice cream.”

Watching them disappear into the shop, Hadley chuckled and made her way to the ladies’ room.

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Inside the stall, she realized her period had started. Thankfully, she had thought ahead and packed what she needed, retrieving supplies from her purse. A wave of relief washed over her. Skipping the ice cream turned out to be a wise decision.

Out in the mall, Colleen sat with Joy, both of them enjoying their ice cream in perfect harmony on a nearby bench.

“This is delicious!” Colleen announced, savoring her treat.

Joy nodded, just as enthusiastic. “So yummy!”

Just then, Joy’s body tensed. Her eyes grew wide as she stared at the elevator across the way.

A crowd stepped out of the elevator, with a strikingly tall man commanding the center of attention.

“That’s Daddy…” Joy’s gaze fixed on him instantly, her voice quivering. Without a second thought, Joy leaped from the bench and darted toward the man, her tiny legs pumping furiously.

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