From afar, the gates to the Johnson Estate swung open as if on cue, allowing the car to glide smoothly up to the grand entrance. Gilbert, in a gesture that had become second nature, scooped up Jenna into his arms, earning a slight frown from Sherilyn.
Jenna’s getting too big to be carried around all the time, she commented.
She’s still my little girl, Gilbert retorted with a dismissive chuckle, adding, Besides, she’s just had surgery. She needs to take it easy. With that, he stepped out of the car, holding Jenna close.
Sherilyn shook her head, silently protesting his indulgence.
At the front door, Francis, along with Rebecca White and James, were already waiting.
Daddy! James shouted from a distance, looking up at Francis for approval.
Go ahead, Francis nodded, giving his son the green light.
With a hop in his step, James rushed over, arms flailing. Jenna!
Gilbert gently set Jenna down, encouraging her, Look, James is here to pick you up. Go on.
Oh… Jenna’s face lit up with a smile, immediately warming up to James as he hesitated for a second before taking her hand.
Let’s go inside. I’ve got a surprise for you and loads of snacks, James beamed.
Really? Thank you! Jenna’s eyes sparkled with excitement as they walked hand in hand towards the house.
Turning to find Sherilyn, Gilbert caught her furrowed brow and chuckled softly.
Girls need a little extra spoiling. Don’t worry, once she’s a bit older and stronger, we’ll discipline her as needed. If she’s naughty, I’ll take the punishment with her. You can dole it out. Sherilyn couldn’t help but laugh at his words, her irritation fading. Stop your teasing. Let’s head inside. Everyone is waiting.
At the entrance, Rebecca White
stood awkwardly. Turning to Franci
she hesitated. Maybed
should leave? It seems like a family dinner, and I…
Francis cut her off with a frown. Leave to where? You promised no backing out.
But…
There are no buts, Francis insisted firmly. Sherilyn is your friend, and Gilbert knows everything. He’s happy for us. Stay. Gilbert, Sherilyn, Francis greeted as they approached, turning the attention away from Rebecca.
Gilbert offered a warm smile. Ms. White, it’s been a while. Good to see you.
And you, Mr. Harrison, Rebecca replied courteously.
Sherilyn, more at ease, linked arms with Rebecca. Let them catch up. We’ve got our own chatting to do.
Behind them, Gilbert teased, looking at his brother, So, it’s official then?
Francis simply nodded in acknowledgment.
Let’s talk inside.
With dinner still a ways off and James and Jenna occupied in the playroom, the adults gathered to chat.
The conversation turned to Jenna’s schooling, with Gilbert explaining Sherilyn and I were thinking of enrolling her in the same school as James. He could look out fopher.
Of course, Francis agreed. Brothers should look after their sisters.
A practical concern arose. Next semester is coming up. We need to start preparing. Where’s Jenna registered?
Jenna was born in Crestwood, granting her citizenship there, but without a local registration.
Francis understood the dilemma.
swnevel?get
Sunhaven has strict registration and documentation requirements, especially for James’s school…
He paused, then concluded, Jenna’s registration needs to be with Gilbert.