Chapter 253
Chapter 253:
She reached down and gave it a gentle squeeze. The softness was irresistible, like holding a tiny cloud.
Turning to Ethan, Noelle’s eyes were wide and shining, overflowing with happiness. “Why did you think to get me something this adorable p>
He reached out and ruffled her hair, a gentle smile flickering at his lips. “So, does it make you happy p>
She beamed, her excitement impossible to miss. “It’s perfect! I absolutely adore it p>
There had always been a place in her heart for charming stuffed animals. Even as she got older, that old love never faded away.
With another squeeze of the fox’s ears, she spotted a tiny label—it was a rare, limited-edition plush.
That childlike delight in her eyes softened Ethan’s normally stoic expression.
Noelle’s most treasured doll—a gift from Babette—had been ruined beyond repair. Ethan’s first instinct had been to track down a replica to mend what was broken.
Yet he soon realized a copy could never truly take Babette’s place. It would only remind her of the loss, not erase it.
𝗣𝗗𝗙𝗌 o𝗻.сo𝘮
Instead, he decided to give her something entirely new. The fox plush was meant to bring her comfort where the old doll could not. Babette’s doll might be gone, but this new friend could stay with Noelle, wherever she went.
An exaggerated groan escaped Farrell as he witnessed the affectionate scene. “That’s it! I can’t take this anymore! How come nobody gives me presents? Do us single folks have rights, or are we just stuck as third wheels forever p>
Noelle could only stare, completely at a loss for words.
A moment later, a thought popped into her mind. She turned to Ethan and asked, “Hey, your birthday’s coming up soon, isn’t it p>
He arched an eyebrow, his tone lazy and teasing. “Look at that. You actually remembered my birthday p>
At the hint of something juicy, Farrell’s mood shifted instantly. He stopped complaining, his eyes sparkling with curiosity as he shot Noelle a wicked grin.
A flush of warmth crept up her cheeks. “Of course I remember p>
Year after year, their childhood had included birthday celebrations together. Skipping his birthday simply wasn’t an option.
Curiosity danced in Farrell’s eyes as he leaned closer. “So, what’s your big plan for your husband’s special day p>
Her ears grew hot as she shot Farrell a warning look. “How about you mind your own business p>
Later that afternoon, Levi made his entrance for a visit.
Walking in with his cane, Levi’s whole face lit up the second he spotted Noelle. “Noey, I finally managed to free up my schedule to come by and see you—and, yes, I suppose I’m here to see Ethan too p>
Ethan let out a silent sigh, hearing himself reduced to an afterthought. Farrell burst out of the kitchen, eager to be included. “Grandpa, don’t forget about me p>
Levi’s laugh rang through the room, his joy unmistakable. “Perfect, everyone’s here p>
That night, Levi stayed at Scenery Estate and joined the three of them for dinner.
Warmth and laughter filled the dining room, weaving a cozy atmosphere.