Chapter 358

Countdowns always make time feel more precious.

Like the seven days waiting for a pregnancy test result. Like now.

Three days remained. The first day was spent fulfilling the children's dreams at the amusement park. The second day, accompanying Celeste into the operating room.

And the final day?

Stella looked up at him.

His left arm was in a cast, slung across his chest. His right hand rested casually in his pocket. His posture was straight, his gaze tender as he watched the scene ahead.

By the carousel, the three children buzzed like excited bees, choosing their favorite horses. Ethan, the eldest, carefully helped his sisters onto their mounts before climbing onto the tallest chestnut steed. Noticing his parents' attention, he waved enthusiastically.

Little Celeste, the youngest, had Penny sitting protectively behind her. From afar, Penny gave Stella a reassuring thumbs-up.

The music began—an English rendition of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star."

"Twinkle twinkle little star..."

"Little star..."

His voice dissolved into the cheerful melody.

"Hmm?"

"I'm sorry."

"What?"

"Truly sorry..."

"Sir, ma'am, would you like to buy balloons for the kids?" A jester-clad vendor appeared, clutching a bouquet of cartoon balloons.

Adrian asked, "Do you have Iron Man?"

"Yes, of course..."

He shoved his wallet into Stella's hands. "Help me pay."

Before she could react, he'd already selected several balloons and even picked out cat-ear headbands for the girls.

"That'll be fifty-three yuan," the jester said with a smile.

As Stella reached for her phone to scan the payment, Adrian interjected, "Pick a few more."

"We already have three."

"Which one do you like?" His eyes skimmed the colorful array. "I remember you loved the Powerpuff Girls."

Stella's ears warmed. That cartoon was from so long ago.

The jester eagerly suggested, "This moon balloon is very popular."

"Do you have stars?"

"We have stars, moons, and even suns!"

"One of each," Adrian said.

After collecting the celestial trio, Stella pointed to a fluffy cloud balloon. "Add this one too."

As the jester handed over the balloons, he whispered conspiratorially, "Make sure to ride the Ferris wheel tonight. The night view is breathtaking."

"Yes, especially beautiful," Adrian murmured in agreement before dismissing the vendor.

The carousel slowed to a stop, and the children dashed toward costumed characters. Penny crouched to snap photos.

"Cloud..." Adrian studied the balloon. "Does 'Adrian' mean cloud?"

"This is for you." Stella lifted the cloud balloon. "Look, there's a tiny lightning bolt on it. Cloud and thunder—that's you."

He stared at the balloon, the corner of his mouth lifting. "There is lightning."

"I spotted it immediately."

"Thank you." His voice was low. "I love it."

The gratitude felt too solemn. Stella averted her gaze. Ethan was waving at them from a distance. She hurried over. "The kids are calling us."

The balloons swayed in her grip as Adrian easily caught up. When a miniature train passed by, he pulled her back. "Careful." His brow furrowed. "What will you do when I'm not here to watch over you?"

Once the train passed, he strode ahead, his back straight and tall.

"Mom! Dad!" The children rushed toward them.

Penny raised her camera. "How about a family photo?"

"Yes!" Ethan bounced excitedly. "We've never taken one before!"

Adrian glanced at Stella. She nodded. "Let's do it."

"Mr. Roland, hold Luna. Mrs. Roland, take Celeste. Ethan, stand in the middle..."

Click—

Happiness crystallized in that moment.