章節 5: Shovel talk

The new, unconventional family of four had embarked on a day filled with laughter and adventure at the amusement park. The initial awkwardness that had lingered between them had quickly dissipated as they rode various attractions and exchanged jokes and stories. Caleb couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the remarkable person Lilian was. She effortlessly bridged the gap between him and her younger siblings, creating an atmosphere of warmth and inclusion.

As they wandered through the park, Lilian and Amber showered Cole with attention. It was evident that he had them wrapped around his little chubby fingers, yet the sisters made sure to include him in all their activities, ensuring he never felt left out. The bond between them grew stronger with every shared experience, filling the day with laughter and joy.

After a whirlwind of rides and excitement, they decided to take a break. Amber chose to accompany Caleb, while Lilian stayed with Cole. Caleb glanced behind him, wondering if Cole might want to join them, but the boy seemed completely engrossed in his time with Lilian. A contented smile spread across Caleb's face; their relationship was blossoming beautifully.

Amber and Cole walked together in comfortable silence for a while before Amber mustered the courage to break the quiet. She began, her voice carrying a hint of nervousness, "I've wanted to speak to you privately."

Caleb turned his attention to her, his expression attentive. He could sense the sincerity in her voice as she continued, "I know the position my sister is in right now isn't the best, and this marriage might not be a love match. But she's all that I have, just as you were forced into this, and I want you to promise me something. Promise me that you'll protect her, try to love her, and respect her. She means everything to me, and I want her to be happy."

Caleb nodded solemnly, his gaze locked with hers. "I promise you that I'll do everything in my power to protect her, even from my own family," he assured her, a warmth in his eyes.

Amber's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "If you break your promise, I'll make you regret it," she teased, attempting to lighten the mood.

Caleb chuckled, genuinely touched by her protective spirit. "Sure, and you can get it written and signed by me."

Amber grinned, her sense of humor returning. "I'm going to do just that."

Their playful banter continued as they walked, with Caleb asserting, "Hmm, I guess I have to protect you too, considering you seem to be a crybaby. Can't let anyone hurt you, now can I? Don't worry; your big brother is here."

Amber mockingly feigned offense, retorting, "Who wants to be your little sister?"

Caleb sniffled dramatically, his eyes sparkling mischievously. "Hey, people would kill to be my little sister, you know."

Amber played along, intrigued by Caleb's spirited personality. "Really? But since you insist on begging me to be your little sister, I guess I'll have to reluctantly accept."

Caleb frowned jokingly "what are you reluctant about" Amber just smiles and starts walking faster.

Caleb laughed and quickened his pace, challenging Amber. "Come back here and tell me," he said, daring her with a twinkle in his eye.

Caleb couldn't resist the playful challenge and jogged to catch up with her. In a lighthearted moment, he gently put her in a mock chokehold, both of them laughing.

The day continued with more laughter and bonding, and they spent another two hours enjoying the park's attractions before returning home. As Caleb and Cole headed back, Cole couldn't contain his excitement, recounting their day in endless chatter. Caleb patiently answered his questions until the boy eventually drifted off to sleep, his head resting on Caleb's shoulder.

In the weeks that followed, Caleb and Lilian made a concerted effort to meet with their new family members. Despite their busy schedules, they managed to find time for each other and create lasting memories together. Cole had effortlessly grown fond of the sisters, and Amber and Cole's antics brought them all closer. The bond between Lilian and Cole continued to deepen with each interaction, and Caleb couldn't have been happier to witness it.

The wedding preparations were in full swing, overseen by Caleb's grandmother. Still, Caleb ensured that Lilian had a significant say in the proceedings, from choosing their attire to making crucial decisions about their big day. They would sometimes go out to discuss details, but they also cherished the moments they spent together in their respective apartments, building a connection that went beyond their initial arrangement.

These weeks were a beautiful chapter in their lives, filled with shared laughter, adventures, and a growing sense of companionship. Caleb was well aware that he wasn't in love with Lilian, and she didn't harbor romantic feelings for him either. Still, the bond they shared felt uniquely meaningful, and he cherished every moment they spent together.

However, the idyllic days came to a sudden halt when Caleb's grandmother discovered his relationship with Lilian, and their world was about to be thrown into turmoil.