Chapter 87

" We'll figure it out together, won't we? " Alex spoke softly, his gaze fixed on the distant stars.

Ava looked at him, a gentle smile gracing her lips. " Of course. We're a team, remember? "

They leaned against each other, the tranquil night embracing their silent agreement. Together, they relished the anticipation of the future, confident in their bond and their ability to navigate whatever lay ahead.

As the night deepened, they remained on the balcony, wrapped in each other's presence, the stars bearing witness to their shared dreams and the unspoken promises that bound them together.

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The sun hung lazily in the sky, casting a warm glow over the park where Mabel had set up a charming picnic spread. A checkered blanket adorned with an array of delectable treats lay nestled under the shade of a sprawling oak tree. Mabel, arranged the sandwiches neatly, humming a tune to herself.

Ava approached, a bright smile illuminating her face. " This looks amazing, Mabel! Liam will love it here " she exclaimed, glancing around at the picturesque setting.

Mabel grinned, her eyes twinkling with excitement. " I thought it'd be nice for all of us to hang out. It's about time Liam and you had some fun together outside of family gatherings "

Ava nodded, a hint of relief in her voice. " Absolutely, I'm thrilled he gets to spend time with someone his age "

As they set everything up, Alex, strolled over, a mix of annoyance and amusement evident on his face. " Here we go again, babe. More time with Mabel, huh? "

Ava rolled her eyes playfully. " Oh, come on, Alex. It's just a picnic. Besides, you know how important it is for me to have friends my age "

He sighed dramatically. " Fine, fine. Just don't forget about me entirely "

Meanwhile, Liam, bounded towards them, a grin stretching across his face. " Picnic time! This looks awesome, Mama! "

As they settled in, laughter filled the air, with sandwiches being devoured and tales shared. Mabel glanced at her husband, Jack, who had strolled over, eyeing the spread hungrily.

" Hey, what's all this? " Jack inquired, eyeing the picnic setup with interest.

Mabel winked mischievously. " Oh, just a girls' picnic, dear. Sorry, no room for boys "

Jack feigned offense, pointing at Liam. " Is Liam a girl? " he protested, his tone playful.

Mabel chuckled. " Nice try, honey. But this is strictly a 'no boys allowed' affair "

Jack shrugged, mock pouting. " Alright, alright. Have fun, ladies "

As the afternoon unfolded, the trio - Mabel, Ava, and Liam - enjoyed their time together, sharing stories, playing games, and relishing the camaraderie. In the distance, Jack watched on with a mix of amusement and slight envy, occasionally shouting playful comments that were met with laughter from the picnic group. The day wore on with a perfect blend of sunshine, laughter, and newfound friendships.

As the sun began its gradual descent, casting a golden hue over the park, Mabel, Ava, and Liam found themselves engrossed in a game of charades. Their laughter echoed through the tranquil surroundings, drawing the attention of nearby picnickers who couldn't help but smile at their infectious joy.

Jack, unable to resist any longer, sauntered over, a teasing glint in his eyes. " Alright, ladies, mind if I join in on the fun? I promise I'll behave "

Mabel raised an eyebrow, feigning consideration. " Hmm, let's see. Ava, what do you think? Should we allow an honorary guest? "

Ava exchanged a playful glance with Liam before turning to Jack with a smirk. " I suppose we could make an exception this time, but only if you promise to be on your best behavior, Jack "

Jack feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart. " I am the epitome of good behavior! " he proclaimed dramatically, earning a round of chuckles from the group.

With Jack joining in, the game intensified, accompanied by friendly banter and exaggerated gestures. Even amidst the competitive charades, Jack found himself genuinely enjoying the bond between Mabel, Ava, and Liam.

As the evening descended and the sky painted itself in shades of orange and pink, the group gathered around, toasting marshmallows over a crackling fire pit. The warmth of the flames mirrored the warmth of their camaraderie, fostering a sense of belonging that enveloped them.

Ava glanced at Jack, a twinkle in her eye. " You see, Jack, we may have said 'no boys allowed,' but we'll make an exception for a well-behaved gentleman "

Jack grinned, lifting his marshmallow triumphantly. " I'll take that title with pride! "

The sun dipped below the horizon, signaling the end of their delightful picnic. Reluctantly, they began packing up, exchanging promises to do it all again soon.

As they bid farewell, Jack hugged Mabel tightly. " I might pout again next time, but I'm glad you all had a great time. Thanks for letting me crash the girls' club "

Mabel grinned, squeezing his hand. " Anytime, dear. But next time, you bring your own s'mores supplies! "

With laughter and fond memories, they departed, the newfound bond between Mabel, Ava, Liam, and even Jack, stronger than ever.

In the days following the picnic, Mabel noticed a change in Jack's demeanor. He seemed more open to spending time with Alex and Liam, occasionally joining them for outings or sharing a meal together. Their bond was slowly extending beyond the picnic, weaving a stronger connection within the family.

One breezy afternoon, Mabel found Jack in the backyard, attempting to set up a small barbecue grill. She chuckled at his determined yet puzzled expression.

" Need some help there, grill master? " she teased, approaching with a playful grin.

Jack looked up, a sheepish smile spreading across his face. " I thought I'd give this a shot. I mean, if Ava and Liam enjoy outdoor gatherings, why not have a small family barbecue, right? "

Mabel nodded approvingly. " That's a fantastic idea, dear. Let me lend a hand "