Debraâs POV:
After I got back to the manor, I headed straight to Abbyâs room.
I had only been away from her for a day, yet I missed her terribly.
Abby probably felt the same because when she saw me, her face Lit up and she reached out with her little arms.
My heart swelled at the sight, and I rushed over to scoop her into my arms, peppering her chubby cheeks with ki*ses.
Her body carried a light scent of milk, which I found soothing.
I buried my face in her shoulder, and instantly, my worries faded away.
Nora, who was standing by us with a gentle smile, entertained Abby with a puppet, making her giggle with delight.
It was clear that Nora cared deeply for Abby, and the affection was mutual.
We spent a great deal of time playing with Abby, laughing and enjoying her joyful spirit.
Eventually, when she began to show signs of fatigue, Nora took her from me and lulled her to sleep.
âs BunnyBookery
After Abby had fallen asleep, Nora leaned in and whispered, âAbby really gravitates towards you.
It might be good to spend more time with her.
â
I was caressing Abbyâs cheek when Noraâs words made me pause.
The smile on my face stiffened, and I responded with a hint of confusion, âWhatâs the matter? Has Abby been upset because I havenât been around much?â
A wave of nervousness washed over me.
I knew how much my daughter needed me, especially at such a young age.
My time with Abby had been scarce, and recent events with Caleb had only further limited our moments together.
Guilt surged through me.
Perhaps it was time to tell Caleb that Abby was our daughter, and we needed to bring her home to the Thorn Edge Pack as soon as we could.
After all, that was where Abby belonged, with her kind grandmother and her siblings.
But as I stewed in my worry, Nora shook her head and reassured, âNo, Abby is quite the trooper.
She hasnât been crying.
She just looks to the door and out the window now and then, as if sheâs waiting for someone.
â
My heart sank further.
Abby was waiting for me.
I fought hard to hold back my tears as I looked at Abby, then turned to Nora.
With a nod, I assured them, âDonât worry.
Iâll make sure to visit Abby more often.
Thanks for everything youâve done these past days.
Iâll do my best to get you whatever you need.
â
Nora responded with a gentle smile, declining my offer.
âNo, thanks.
I donât need anything.
Itâs on me, really.
Iâve been poring over parenting books lately.
They all stress how crucial parents are during childhood.
Maybe I got a bit too worried and pushed you to visit more.
â
I could feel my face fall slightly, a twinge of discomfort settling in.
Being a mother, I understood deeply the need for a child to have her mother close, but things were complicated at the moment.
âDonât worry about it too much.
Those books arenât always right.
If youâre busy, just focus on your work.
I can look after Abby,â Nora added quickly, probably picking up on my discomfort.
I lapsed into a troubled silence, guilt washing over me.
Noticing my mood, Nora tried to lighten the atmosphere.
âPlease, donât feel bad or blame yourself.
Abbyâs doing wonderfully.
If you have any doubts, just look at the videos and pictures Iâve taken.
â
She then pulled out her phone and started showing me many videos of Abby.