Dinner resumed in warm harmony, now with an extra plate set neatly at the table for Felix. The twins, who had practically lit up like fireworks the moment he walked in, took turns recounting their school day, their laughter filling the air.
Maya, however, wasn't done voicing her earlier complaint.
"Uncle Felix," she said with a tiny pout, stabbing a piece of broccoli with her fork. "You didn't visit us for so long. I thought you forgot us."
Felix offered an apologetic smile, his eyes softening. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I didn't mean to. I just had some things to take care of. Grown-up things."
Katherine, sitting across from him, gently intervened. "Maya, Nathan, remember what I said? Uncle Felix is a busy man. He has lots of work, okay?"
Maya and Nathan both nodded, albeit reluctantly.
"Now I feel bad," Felix chuckled lightly.
"If you feel bad," Maya perked up again, her eyes sparkling with mischief, "you should take us to the theme park!"
