Chapter 96
Charlene and Daisy had just managed to get their kite soaring against the backdrop of a cloudless sky, and their laughter filled the air, mingling with the distant sound of children playing and the gentle rustle of trees. Granger watched them, a shadow of a smile playing across his features as he noticed Charlene’s infectious laughter. It seemed to light up the whole park.
Catching his gaze, Charlene tilted her head, puzzled. “What’s up?”
“Nothing much,” Granger replied, his voice a low hum in the late morning air.
Not pressing further, Charlene took Daisy’s hand, and they wandered off towards the lake, leaving Granger to his thoughts. He observed them from a distance, content in his solitude.
After the excitement of kite flying faded, Charlene and Daisy ended up by the lake, fishing with just rods and bait, or trying to catch quick-moving fish in a vendor’s small tank with a little net.
Soon, it was midday.
Granger had initially planned for a leisurely stroll with Daisy; unlike the others, they hadn’t thought to bring a picnic. Hunger crept up on them, especially Daisy, prompting Granger to suggest grabbing lunch at a nearby diner.
Relaxed from the morning’s activities, Charlene agreed without hesitation to Granger’s suggestion. Throughout lunch, Charlene engaged mostly with Daisy, their conversation easy and filled with laughter. Granger, seeing their bond, didn’t intrude, simply pushing plates of their favorite dishes towards them, unnoticed by Charlene.
Soon, Granger’s phone broke the peaceful scene with its insistent ring.
“It’s Moran,” Granger excused himself, stepping away to answer the call.
“Hey, where are you at? Eaten yet? Got some fresh seafood here from a buddy, wanna join? Thorne and the gang are coming over too,” Moran’s voice crackled through the phone.
Granger glanced back at Charlene and Daisy, his voice steady as he declined, “We’ve already eaten, maybe next time.”
“And tonight? There’s a yacht party. Thorne confirmed they’re going. Why not bring your niece along? It’d be a good chance for us all to meet her,” Moran pressed on.
“She’s not too keen on crowds. Might not be comfortable on a yacht with so many people,” Granger replied, putting an end to the invitation.
“Come on, Minnie will be there; they’re about the same age. They’ll hit it off. See you at seven, alright?” Moran insisted, then hung up before Granger could protest.
After their meal, Charlene and Daisy chased butterflies and rode bikes until exhaustion claimed them, marking the end of their day out. Daisy dozed off, and Charlene decided it was time to head home. Granger watched as Charlene drove away, then left himself.
Waking from her nap, Daisy’s first words were, “Where’s that lady?”
“She’s gone home,” Granger informed her, noting Daisy’s disappointment.
By seven, Granger and Daisy were on time for the yacht party.
Moran greeted them with a wave, his eyes lighting up at the sight of Daisy. “This must be the beautiful Daisy. I’m Mr. Albright, a friend of your uncle…”
The yacht was packed, and Daisy stayed close to Granger, feeling overwhelmed by the crowd.
After introductions, Vesta came over with Jasmine, and noticing Daisy’s shyness, Jasmine offered her hand. “There are lots of kids playing over there. Want to join me?”
With a nod from Granger, Daisy took Jasmine’s hand, her courage bolstered.
As the kids disappeared into the crowd, Moran teased Granger, “How’s it feel to play dad for the day?”
“It’s alright,” Granger responded, watching Daisy blend into the crowd of children.
Thorne handed him a drink, “Need this?”
With the evening unfolding around them, Granger found himself easing into the role of guardian, the laughter and chatter of the party blending into the backdrop of a new adventure.