"Brother Nolan, I'll take my leave first!" Alicia exclaimed as she ran up to Nolan and clung to his right thigh in a spoiled manner.
Amused by her behavior, Nolan chuckled and scooped her into his arms.
"Take good care of yourself, alright? And don't forget your promise to me—to always be a good girl. Got it?" he said, holding up his little finger.
Alicia nodded eagerly and hooked her tiny finger around his.
"I got it, Brother Nolan! Don't worry!" She replied with a sweet smile.
Nolan gave a faint smile and nodded slowly.
He watched silently as they walked away, gradually disappearing from sight.
Just as he turned to Elina, intending to say something, he was met with a sharp, icy stare from his beloved sister—causing him to freeze on the spot.
"What's wrong, Elina? Is something bothering you?" he asked, clearly puzzled.
But Elina gave no reply. She merely pursed her lips, looked away, and folded her arms across her chest.
