chapter747

Kylie hadn't been home in over twenty years. In all that time, Cameron, her husband, had never once managed to visit her parents for the holidays. Now, finally, they had the chance. Of course, he wanted everything to be perfect.

Just thinking about seeing her parents again made Kylie feel both nervous and excited. Tomorrow, she'd finally return to the Robinson estate, finally get to hug her mom and dad again.

"Yes, love, we should pick out some nice gifts and bring the kids with us," Kylie said, her mind already racing with plans.

She turned to Lydia. "Lydia, do you have time to come tomorrow?"

Kylie worried Lydia might be too busy. School, friends, everything seemed to fill up her schedule lately.

Lydia really was busy, but going to see her grandparents was non-negotiable.

"I'll make time," Lydia said.

Kylie smiled with relief. "Good. Blake, Arthur, and Garrett aren't home, and Elliot's been so busy lately he's practically disappeared. I'll call him later, ask if he can join us."

Elliot was always on the move with his national tour. Even though he was in the city, he hardly ever made it home since Lydia started school.

Lydia just nodded. "Okay."

Connor cleared his throat. "Mr. Norwood, Mrs. Norwood, my grandpa wants to invite Lydia over for lunch today. Is it alright if I take her now?"

Despite being rattled by what William had said earlier, Connor hadn't lost sight of why he was here. He needed to take Lydia with him.

Cameron and Kylie exchanged a glance and nodded. "Of course, Connor. Hang on a second, we can have someone prepare a few gifts for you to bring."

Lydia and Connor spoke at the same time. "It's fine, really."

They looked at each other. Lydia added, "You are busy. We'll pick something up on the way. It's faster."

Cameron reached into his pocket and handed Lydia a credit card. Here, use this. Lydia shook her head. "I've got my own, Dad."

Cameron just smiled and gave in. "Alright. Say hello to Grandpa Samuel for us. "I will."

Kylie and Cameron watched Connor and Lydia teave, feeling lighter than they had in ages. They started back inside but halfway there, Kylie realized Lucinda was still standing in the same spot, completely silent.

Kylie turned around and walked over to her, voice soft and gentle. Lucinda, what's wrong?"

Lucinda looked up. Her eyes were rimmed red, and she looked like she might cry at any second. Mom, I don't want to go with you to see Grandma and Grandpa tomorrow."

Kylie blinked, surprised. Why not? Do you have something important going on?"

Lucinda shook her head. "No..."

Kylie paused, then understanding dawned in her eyes.

She reached out, her voice low and comforting Lucinda, please don't overthink it. Even if you're not my nkit.

biological daughter, you are my net

daughter in every way that matters. You're a part of the Norwood family. know your grandparents feel the same."

Lucinda's eyes filled with fresh tears. Her voice was thick and trembling. "But in Uncle and Aunt's eyes, only my sister is really their niece. I'm just... I'm just someone extra."

William's words from earlier had hurt more than she wanted to admit.

And the way William hadn't looked at her, not even once, made everything worse. To them, it was like she didn't even exist. The only girl that mattered was Lydia.

Kylie thought back to her brother's words. Seeing Lucinda standing there, so hurt and small, broke here heart. She wrapped her arm around Lucinda's shoulders and tried to reassure her. "Lucinda, your uncle just says whatever comes to mind. He doesnt mean to hurt you. Please, come with us tomorrow to visit your grandparents. I want them to know you too, okay?"