Chapter Twenty-Two

As the day progressed, Karina joined her family in celebrating her achievements. Afterward, she walked into her daughter's room, holding her in her arms.

"Mommy, you're amazing," Sophie gently expressed, giving her a kiss on the cheek before settling on her bed.

"My sweet little angel," Karina cooed, tickling her daughter and reveling in her delightful laughter.

"Mom, please stop. You're acting like a child," Sophie teased, as Karina sat next to her on the bed.

"Well, I don't mind carrying you on my back, playing around this huge house with you, or even acting like a child for you."

"I know, but you don't have to do all that. Great-grandfather can give me a piggyback ride," Sophie said.

Karina was taken aback. "Has he ever done that before?"

"No, but he promised to do it next Sunday."

"Sweetheart, you shouldn't let him do that. He's quite old now. You don't want to overburden him."

"Oh." Sophie pouted. "I've told him that, but he keeps bragging about how strong he is. Anyway,