Chapter 182

Stacey spent the afternoon contemplating her next move. That evening, leaving work, she blurted to her father, "I want to go to Daprein on a business trip."

Patrick’s surprise was fleeting. "Sure," he said, "Take Mom. She'd love to shop in Eklonna." Relief washed over Stacey. "Okay," she nodded.

Back home, Stacey announced the Daprein trip to inspect Eklonna. Debra’s eyes gleamed. "I'm coming!" she declared. Stacey, remembering Patrick's suggestion, smiled and readily agreed. Debra’s joyous glance at Patrick sealed the deal.

A week later, Stacey, along with Debra, Lillian, Kevin, Gwen, and Marie, were abroad. Debra insisted the younger children needed the experience. Even Patrick conceded. With such a large group, the trip felt more like a vacation than business.

But Patrick had a point: "Disguise ourselves as tourists," he’d warned. "Otherwise, Eklonna might throw us out." Stacey realized he was right.

Unforeseen, they ran into Hayden. Lillian and Kevin spotted him first, their eyes lighting up. Kevin, a cannonball of a boy, launched himself at Hayden, hugging his leg. "Daddy!" he cried. Lillian followed, clinging to the other leg, "Daddy, why are you here?"

Stacey, startled but quickly recovering, rushed after them. "Sorry," she stammered, "They're… young."

A Dapreinian, eyeing the children, spoke excitedly to Hayden in Dapreinish. Stacey, clueless, felt awkward asking for a translation.

Hayden, seemingly pleased, responded in Dapreinish. Then, he scooped up Lillian and Kevin. Stacey instinctively reached out to steady them. Unaware of any danger, the children were ecstatic.

The Dapreinian, curious, reached for Lillian. Unafraid, she was captivated by his blond hair. She stretched out her arms, about to throw herself at him. He caught her easily, a delighted grin spreading across his face.

Relieved, Stacey watched as Hayden, now holding only Kevin, smiled at her. "Why are you in Daprein?" he asked.

Stacey explained. Hayden was surprised. "Eklonna? We're here for their new product exhibition! Mrs. Carter, would you like to join us?" He addressed Stacey and Debra with courteous respect.

Debra gasped, "Eklonna's new product show?"

"Yes," Hayden confirmed.

Stacey was thrilled. But Debra pointed out, "We don't have an invitation."

Hayden smiled. "Leave it to me. Shouldn't be a problem."

Debra thanked him profusely. Stacey echoed her gratitude. "Thank you. Dinner's on me, next time."

Hayden nodded. "Okay."

"Daddy, what are you doing here?" Kevin asked, clinging to Hayden. Hayden patiently explained, though Kevin was too young to grasp the concept of an exhibition.

"Where are you staying?" Hayden asked Stacey and Debra. "Shall I take you to your hotel?"

Stacey glanced at the blond man, shaking her head. "We're fine. You have things to do."

Hayden followed her gaze, smiling. "This is Hugo Eastman, a close friend. No need for formalities."

Hugo, thrilled, extended a hand. "Hi, I'm Hugo. Nice to meet you," he said, his Zentiscapian slightly awkward.

Stacey shook his hand. "Hello, I'm Stacey Carter."

"Stay-see?" Hugo questioned, confused.

Stacey’s mouth twitched. "It's Stacey, from Eustace – meaning fruitful or productive."