Chapter 73

A soft breeze rustled through the trees, carrying the scent of fresh grass and blooming flowers. It was the perfect day to be outside.

And Alexei was making the most of it.

Noelle barely had time to react before the little boy launched himself at her with arms outstretched and laughter spilling from his lips. “Noelle! You can’t catch me!” he squealed, dashing across the lawn with the speed of a child who had nothing but pure energy in his tiny body.

Noelle gasped dramatically, placing her hands on her hips. “Oh, you little rascal! You think you can get away that easily?”

Alexei turned back, grinning mischievously before sticking out his tongue. “Try me!”

With a playful smirk, Noelle took off after him, her laughter blending with his as they zigzagged through the garden. Every time she got close, Alexei would let out a high-pitched giggle and dart away just in time, his small legs moving as fast as they could.

“You’re too slow!” he teased, looking