The Watson mansion felt unusually quiet that morning. Keifer and her dad had left for London on urgent work, leaving Jay behind. She stood by the window, watching the driveway empty, her heart tugging with worry.
She sighed softly. "I hope they're both okay…" she murmured, more to herself than anyone else.
Serina walked up behind her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "They'll be fine, Jay. And you'll be fine too. You're part of this family now," she said warmly.
Jay smiled faintly, but her worry didn't fade. "I just… I worry about Keifer. And Dad too. What if something happens while they're away?" she admitted, her voice tinged with unease.
Serina chuckled softly. "That's because you care, Jay. And that's exactly why Keifer and your dad trust you. You're already part of our lives—you belong here."
Jay's lips curved into a small, shy smile. "Mama… I really do feel like I'm home here."
Keizer walked in from the office, his calm presence grounding her. "They'll be back soon," he said, adjusting his tie. "Just a few days. And don't worry, they're careful. Keifer's strong, and your dad… well, he's your dad."
Jay nodded, though the worry lingered. "I just… I hope they're not overworking themselves. I want them both to be safe."
Keigan ran up, tugging at Jay's sleeve, breaking the heaviness in the room. "Jay! Come play with me! Keiren wants to show you his drawing!"
Jay laughed softly, letting the boys pull her away from her thoughts. "Alright, alright, I'm coming," she said, following them.
Even without Keifer and her dad around, Jay found herself laughing, teasing the boys, helping Serina in the kitchen, and quietly assisting Keizer with his work. Every small moment reminded her that she was part of something bigger, something warm and safe.
Later, as she helped Keizer in the office, he looked up from the papers with a gentle smile. "Jay… thank you. For being here, for being part of this family," he said softly.
Jay's chest warmed, and she looked up at him. "Papa… I'm happy to be here. Really. But I miss Keifer… and Dad," she admitted quietly.
Keizer nodded, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I know, Jay. But they'll be back soon, and in the meantime… this is your home too. You're never alone."
That evening, Jay sat by the window, watching the sun dip behind the mansion gardens. She worried for Keifer and her dad, but she also felt a deep, comforting warmth from the family she had gained. She realized, more than ever, that no matter the distance, she had a place where she belonged—filled with love, laughter, and care.