Chapter 64. The Battle Begins
Once Maria and Bernard appeared in the midst of their parents, the conversation between the adults abruptly stopped. Everyone began smiling at the sight of them.
"Dad, I think I heard you and Bernard’s names just now... I hope we haven’t done anything wrong?" Maria asked with a curious look, glancing between the adults.
Alpha Jackson chuckled, shaking his head. "No, sweetheart. You two just reminded Beta Gilbert and me of our own childhood. We used to roam around and play like you two. Believe it or not, your mothers admired us even before we married them."
"Please! Let’s not twist the story," Victoria interjected playfully. "It was both of you who were always swooning over us, not the other way around."
Laughter erupted around the group, and the atmosphere instantly lightened.
Beta Gilbert leaned forward, a warm smile on his face. "So, what did you two see around the park? Anything interesting?"
Maria’s eyes lit up. "So many beautiful scenes! The animals in the zoo section... the whole place feels like it brings us closer to nature. I’m really enjoying every moment here."
"I agree with Maria," Bernard added, sounding more lively than he had earlier. "This whole place is just... peaceful. We should come here at least once a month."
Just as the conversation flowed comfortably, a sudden knock on Maria’s door in the present snapped her out of her thoughts.
She quickly rose from her bed and walked to the door. Opening it, she found a maid standing quietly.
"Beta Gilbert requests your presence, ma’am," the maid said politely before turning and leaving.