Chapter 464

The sun shone brightly on Family Day at the kindergarten, with colorful flags fluttering in the breeze. Every game designed by the school required participation from both parents.

Stella Valentine stood at the entrance, her fingers tightening slightly as the teacher explained the activities. She looked down at the three pairs of eager eyes and forced a smile. "Thank you, we'll just join the simpler games."

"Participation is what matters," the teacher reassured her, glancing at the empty space behind Stella.

Laughter and cheers filled the air. Stella held Ethan's hand while Luna and Celeste clung to her sleeves. Her gaze swept across the playground, lingering briefly on a hopscotch game that required parents to lift their child together before she quickly looked away.

"Mommy!" Celeste suddenly pointed toward the sandpit. "Can we play that one?"

A treasure hunt sign stood by the sandpit. The PE teacher greeted them warmly. "This game needs two adults to—" His eyes searched behind Stella. "Where's their father?"

"I can manage alone," Stella said firmly.

Once the game started, she realized her mistake. The obstacle course was designed to be tricky, and the bucket of marbles in her mouth wobbled precariously. Halfway through, the marbles spilled across the ground.

"Go, Mommy!" The children's voices cheered from below.

Stella clenched her jaw, beads of sweat forming on her forehead. By the time she finished, her shirt was soaked through.

"It's okay," she said, accepting the handkerchiefs the children offered. "Let's go get some snacks."

Under the shade of a tree, Stella handed out cupcakes. Nearby, excited shouts from the basketball court caught their attention. A little girl in a frilly dress was effortlessly lifted by her parents to score a basket.

"That's Lily," Luna whispered. "Her daddy picks her up every week."

Stella's throat tightened. Seeing the longing in her children's eyes, she stood abruptly. "Let's go play!"

"No, Mommy," Celeste shook her head. "You're already tired."

As the awkward silence stretched, a basketball rolled to their feet. A boy named Daniel chased after it, stopping short when he saw them. "Huh? You don't have a dad?"

Ethan immediately stepped in front of his sisters. "Our dad is hurt!"

"Liar!" Daniel pointed to the court. "My dad came even with a broken arm! Your dad just doesn't love you!"

Luna's eyes welled up instantly. Stella pulled her children close, her nails digging into her palms.