Next Day – Devis Mansion
The atmosphere in the house was heavy. Everyone seemed off. The children weren't laughing, their usual energy muted. Amber moved quietly among them, tending to Justin, Lussy, Thomas, and Emily, making sure they were fed and ready for school.
The Devis siblings were distracted, lost in thought. Megan left chores half-done, starting one task only to abandon it for the next. Laurant wandered through the hall, worried.
Lauran: "What's wrong with everyone? Why does it feel… so strange?" 😕
Mrs. Devis glanced around, her expression equally concerned. 😕
As everyone gathered in the hall, Mr. Devis suddenly brightened, a spark of inspiration in his eyes.
Mr. Devis: "Hmm… what if we do something to lift everyone's spirits? I have an idea—let's go on a family outing!" 😊
Everyone froze, surprised.
Mr. Devis: "Come on, everyone! I know work and school have been stressful. We all need a break. One day, just for us."
Emily, the first to react, jumped up excitedly. "Yes! A family outing!" 😁
She twirled around, dragging Lussy into a dance. The others, inspired, joined in, and soon the hall was alive with laughter and movement.
Even the children's laughter caught Amber's attention. She didn't usually enjoy traveling, but the joy in the room was infectious. Justin, Lussy, Thomas, and Emily all looked at her with pleading eyes.
Justin: "Please, sis!" 😁
Lussy: "Come on, Aunt Amber!" 😁
Amber sighed, letting a small smile cross her face. "Okay… fine. But this is the last time." 😐
Children: "Yay! Thank you!" 😁
The mansion, for the first time in days, was filled with warmth, laughter, and a rare moment of peace.
--continue