Ch 49: Regressor Baby

Cristina's POV

It had been three and a half months since I was adopted by Mommy Serena and Mom Valerie, and it was heaven. I never imagined I'd have a family like this—a real, loving family where I was cherished and safe. Mommy was the light of the family, always making sure we were all okay, her warmth wrapping around us like a soft embrace.

Mom was the pillar, unshakable and strong, always standing tall in the face of every challenge. At first, I had been scared of Mom—she reminded me too much of the

Valerie I knew in my past life: cold, distant, and only ever showing a hint of warmth when Reed did something gallant.

Back then, I thought it was because Reed had a chivalrous heart, but now I know better. He only reminded her of her first love, my Mommy Serena.

And then there was Rodan—my big brother. He was the life of this family, full of energy but so gentle when taking care of me. I was truly blessed. I had found a new purpose here. I had thought revenge would be my only goal after regressing, but now I know better. I would protect my family. I wouldn't let that bastard Reed hurt them—not even a little bit.

But I wasn't just idling. I was gathering mana even in my sleep, making sure to absorb as much mystic energy as I could. Mages like me gathered mystic energy from our surroundings, just as divine users prayed to strengthen their divine energy and warriors trained endlessly to refine their aura. I wasn't going to waste this second chance.

A soft touch snapped me out of my thoughts. Mommy Serena was carefully placing me into my stroller, adjusting every little detail to make sure I was comfortable. When she was satisfied, she leaned down and kissed my forehead.

That was it. My baby instincts took over, and my body relaxed instantly. I hated how easily I fell asleep now and how emotional I had become. I could think rationally, but sometimes, my baby instincts won. It was embarrassing.

Mom's voice interrupted my internal whining. "Are we all ready?"

Mommy nodded. "Yes."

And just like that, we were off to Sagewood Cottage. I was beyond excited. Laura was there. In my first life, she had been Reed's party healer and part of his harem. She was never cold, but she wasn't exactly warm either—just quiet. But I knew the truth. Laura had always been kind. She had been my best friend.

We were both orphans, but our lives had taken different paths. I had been left to suffer in an orphanage, bullied and alone. Laura had been luckier—one of the matrons had noticed her divine energy and sent her to the church.

I still remembered our late-night talks about the past. She had confessed once that she never even liked Reed. The church had forced her to be by his side because one of the bishops believed Reed was the destined hero. It made my blood boil just thinking about it.

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A few walks later, and we finally arrived. Rodan, Leon, and Brianna immediately headed to the library for magic class, leaving me in my stroller.

I let out an impatient noise, wiggling my arms dramatically so Mommy would pick me up. She laughed, easily lifting me into her arms and peppering my cheeks with kisses. I giggled uncontrollably, cursing my baby instincts once again. This was so embarrassing!

Mommy carried me inside, bringing me closer to Cecilia, who was holding Laura. The moment I saw her, I beamed and reached out, my tiny hands grasping for her. Laughter surrounded me as Mommy, Mom, and Cecilia all chuckled at my enthusiasm.

They brought us closer, and I studied Laura's face carefully. She was as cute as ever, with those beautiful purple eyes that had always set her apart. She stared right back at me, and then, she smiled.

Something in me softened. Laura… My best friend. Even in this new life, she was here. I looked up at Cecilia, who was usually so quiet but had her own streak of mischief. Then, I thought of Leon, my senior in my past life—cold but kind. And Brianna, who was as energetic and playful as her brother Rodan.

A small hand on my cheek made me blink. Laura had reached out, touching my face with her tiny fingers. I stared at her for a moment, then smiled back.

I swore to myself once again—I would protect my family. No matter what.