Chapter 96

Charlene and Daisy had just managed to get their kite soaring against a cloudless sky. Their laughter filled the air, mingling with the distant sounds of children playing and the gentle rustle of trees. Granger watched them, a shadow of a smile playing on his features as he noted Charlene’s infectious laughter. It seemed to illuminate 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.

Charlene, without pressing further, took Daisy's hand, and they wandered toward the lake, leaving Granger to his thoughts. He observed them from a distance, content in his solitude.

After the kite-flying excitement faded, Charlene and Daisy found themselves by the lake, fishing with simple rods and bait, or attempting to catch quick-moving fish in a vendor's small tank with a little net. Soon, it was midday.

Granger had initially planned a leisurely stroll with Daisy; unlike the others, they hadn't brought a picnic. Hunger, especially Daisy's, prompted Granger to suggest lunch at a nearby diner. Relaxed from the morning's activities, Charlene readily agreed. Throughout lunch, Charlene mostly engaged with Daisy, their conversation easy and filled with laughter. Granger, observing their bond, didn't intrude, simply pushing plates of their favorite dishes toward them, unnoticed by Charlene.

Soon, Granger's phone rang insistently.

"It's Moran," Granger excused himself, stepping away to answer.

"Hey, where are you? Eaten yet? Got some fresh seafood from a buddy, want to 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, he declined, "We've already eaten, maybe next time."

"Tonight? There's a yacht party. Thorne's going. Why not bring your niece? It'd be a good chance for us all to meet her," Moran pressed.

"She's not keen on crowds. She might not be comfortable on a yacht with so many people," Granger replied, ending 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, hanging up before Granger could protest.

After their meal, Charlene and Daisy chased butterflies and rode bikes until exhaustion claimed them, ending their day. Daisy dozed off, and Charlene decided it was time to go home. Granger watched Charlene drive away, then left himself.

Waking from her nap, Daisy's first words were, "Where's that lady?"

"She's gone home," Granger informed her, noticing Daisy's disappointment.

By seven, Granger and Daisy were at 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 crowded, and Daisy stayed close to Granger, feeling overwhelmed.

After introductions, Vesta arrived 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 children 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 group of children.

Thorne handed him a drink. "Need this?"

As the evening unfolded, Granger found himself easing into the role of guardian, the laughter and chatter of the party fading into the backdrop of a new adventure.