Revenge is Best Served… After Reborn

"Catch you at the spot."

Sophie cuddled Fiona as she and Colby climbed into the car.

Harold remarked, "This might be the first time everyone's actually shown up."

"Yeah," Sophie laughed, "In past years, everyone had their own agendas. This year... it's definitely more lively."

Colby gently squeezed Sophie's hand, his eyes warm and tender. "Are you feeling tired? Maybe let Fiona sit on her own; she's a big girl now."

"But I want Daddy to hold me!" Fiona insisted, tugging at Colby's sleeve with determination.

Sophie playfully pinched Fiona's nose, freeing up a hand. "Every time Daddy suggests you sit by yourself, you insist on being held. Such a little rascal." Colby, never able to refuse his daughter, took Fiona from Sophie's arms.

In a soothing voice, Colby said, "Fiona, you're in first grade now. It's time to start being independent and not always lean on Mommy and Daddy."

"But my classmates all like me, and they're super nice to Fiona! I can brush my teeth, wash my face, and even dress myself!" Fiona's eyes shone with pride. Sophie chuckled, "That's right, our Fiona is the smartest. Even Danny can't compete with you."

"Danny said so too."

Fiona beamed at Harold, who was driving. "Uncle! Am I right or what?"

"Absolutely," Harold laughed, "Our Fiona is the brightest."

Compliments turned Fiona's cheeks the color of rosy apples.noveldrama

At the cemetery, everyone was already gathered.

James had finished tending to Joseph's grave, while the group stood by the gate, Odie leaning against the car with a cigarette. "Godfather!"

Spotting James, Fiona leapt from Colby's arms and dashed over.

Colby's expression soured at the sight.

James lifted Fiona higher, smiling. "Fiona, you know your dad might get a little jealous."

"Fiona, your godfather's right here. Didn't you see him?"

Odie, having discarded his cigarette, frowned at Fiona.

Fiona clung to James's neck and cheerfully greeted, "Uncle Julian, Uncle Booker, hello!" Julian and Booker both chuckled.

Only Odie stepped forward to pinch Fiona's cheek. "Oh, you little rascal. Sweet as pie when you want a gift, but once you get it, you forget all about me, just like your mom!"

"Odie is so

pinchin annoying, always "Fiona doesn't like Odie areas! " overs

my cheeks," Fiona pouted,

Fiona's words hit Odie squarely.

Odie gritted his teeth and turned to Sophie. "Did you teach her that?"

"It wasn't me," Sophie replied innocently. "Fiona's been sharp since she was little. You probably spooked her when she was young, and now she's wary of you

"I wasn't trying to scare her; I was teaching her to be cautious."

"And that's why you taught her to play with a toy gun?"

Odie defended, "At least her aim will be as good as mine someday."