Clare finally handed her lively little Oaklynn over to her son, Axton. The two kids walked hand in hand through the airport terminal, drawing admiring glances left and right from travelers.
"Wow, look at those kids—they're absolutely adorable!"
"Do you see that little girl with the pacifier? She's just too cute!"
"Oh! That little boy is going to be a heartbreaker one day!"
Once Clare exited the gate, she spotted Harleywaiting, and the sight of her friend filled her heart with warmth. They rushed into each other's arms, holding on tight.
"Clare! You vanished without a trace back then, and now you just show up out of nowhere. Honestly, I thought I'd never want to speak to you again..." Harley said, faking anger while tears streamed down her face.
Clare was crying too, and she understood perfectly. During those years away in an unfamiliar place, she'd often ached to come back to her dear friend.
"Aunt Harley, my mom came back to make things right," Oaklynn piped up, tugging on Harley's pants, her innocent eyes looking up at the tearful women.
Harley let go of Clare and looked down at the teary-eyed child, then glanced at Clare, incredulous. "This... this is...?"
"I want you to meet my most cherished family members," Clare said, lifting Axton with one arm and Oaklynn with the other. "This is my son, Axton Bradley, and my daughter, Oaklynn Bradley. I promised you a huge surprise!"
"What?!" Harley was completely floored by the sheer size of the surprise.
Oaklynn reached out for Harley, who quickly took her into her arms. Oaklynn planted two sweet kisses on Harley's cheek, making Harley smile involuntarily at the little girl's soft lips.
"Aunt Harley, aren't Oaklynn's kisses the best gift?" Oaklynn asked, her dimples deepening as she flashed a sweet smile, totally melting Harley's heart.
Harley nodded. "Oaklynn is so sweet!" She shifted her gaze to Axton, who was still held by Clare, and chuckled.
Axton felt a chill run down his spine and quickly buried his face in Clare's shoulder, determined not to give up his first kiss so easily!
"Wow, Clare, your son isn't the friendliest type!" Harley teased, secretly charmed by him.
Clare laughed. "Axton already has a little admirer. Belle can't resist him."
"Mom!" Axton protested, sliding down from Clare's hold.
"Mom!" Oaklynn echoed, sliding down from Harley's embrace.
Clare watched her two precious kids standing hand in hand before her, surrounded by the bustling crowd. She felt a rush of gratitude and met Harley's gaze, saying after a pause, "Harley, I'm really back. You have to take me in."
"Of course, my balcony has the perfect view," Harley replied, linking arms with Clare as they made their way out.
