Chapter 138. Harmony

While Emma was playing with the children, a local woman approached, carrying a simple basket of food. She had been watching from a distance, her eyes filled with curiosity and admiration, and then walked up to Emma.

“You’re really good with them,” the woman said sincerely. “It’s like the children have known you forever.”

Emma smiled, gently lifting another little boy into her arms and rocking him softly. “They’re just so sweet,” she replied. “All they need is a little love, and they quickly feel safe.”

The woman chuckled, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. “I saw you with Mr. Ricard. Are you two... boyfriend and girlfriend?”

The question caught Emma off guard, and her cheeks flushed slightly. She quickly shook her head, her voice a bit flustered, “Oh no, not at all. Ricard and I are just colleagues.”

The woman studied Emma for a moment and then smiled kindly. “Really? I thought you two were a couple. You look great together.”

Emma fell silent for