As soon as the teacher announced the start, the field was filled with cheers.
Nathaniel and Asher moved forward in perfect harmony, prompting Mavis and Adora to cheer loudly for them.
Mavis watched how protective Nathaniel was with Asher, and a thought crossed her mind.
If they had a child, would Nathaniel be just as patient and nurturing?
Did he care for Asher and Adora because he genuinely liked children, or was it because they were Sheena's kids?
Nonetheless, Mavis knew she could not ask Nathaniel that question even though she desperately wanted to know the answer.
Lost in her thoughts, Mavis did not realize the race had ended.
Nathaniel and Asher had won first place, which meant Asher had a chance to be elected class representative when school started.
Seeing Asher's excitement, Nathaniel could not help but praise him. "You were amazing, Asher. I couldn't have done it without you. How's your body holding up?"
Asher shook his head, giving Nathaniel a rare smile and raising his tiny fist.
"You weren't too bad yourself, Nathaniel."
Nathaniel was stunned but thrilled.
He bumped Asher's fist and lifted him, carrying him back to Mavis.
Adora immediately hugged Asher, pressing her cheek against his.
"Asher, you're awesome! When school starts, we'll be the coolest siblings. No one will dare mess with us!"
Mavis laughed as she adjusted their scarves and hats, teasing, "Who would dare mess with Adora, the little boss?"
Adora giggled in response.
Once all the parents had collected the school badges, the announcement came over the loudspeaker:
"All parents and children, please return to the registration hall to hear the principal's speech. After the speech, you may leave with your child."
Upon hearing that they had to listen to a speech, Adora pouted.
The speech was so monotonous that even Mavis struggled to keep her eyes open.
Nathaniel noticed and gently guided her head to rest on his shoulder.
Before she knew it, Mavis had fallen asleep, dreaming alongside Asher and Adora.
Suddenly, Nathaniel's voice broke through her slumber.
"It's over."
Mavis quickly opened her eyes and realized her head was resting on his shoulder.
She straightened up immediately, glancing at Nathaniel, whose expression remained neutral.
Parents were beginning to gather their things and wake their children.
Mavis gently shook Adora awake and whispered, "Adora, wake up. We can go home now."
"Uh…" Adora mumbled, still groggy after barely waking up.
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