But

Chloe

He resumed driving, and soon we arrived at a small house. Though it was modest, the exterior was neatly decorated, giving me an instant feeling of coziness. Joshua got out and opened the door for me, helping me out just like Hayden would. I smiled, realizing where Hayden must have learned such gestures.

"Slim!" I heard two small voices yell in unison, and two little kids ran toward Hayden, hugging his legs.

He crouched down to their level before placing his hands on their shoulders. That's when I noticed they were twins.

"I wonder which one is Lioness," he asked, clearly knowing who was who.

"It's me, Slim!" she giggled, throwing herself onto him and hugging him tightly. Her sister followed suit, and Hayden chuckled, standing up and lifting one on each hip.

"Slim is a softie for kids," someone commented from behind me. I turned around to find Leah. She smiled, instantly embracing me, and I hugged her back, missing her dearly.

"I thought you abandoned me," she said, pulling away