40. At The Epicenter

Lloyd arrived home, and as always, the first person to approach him was none other than Pearl, sprinting towards him with a wide grin that also had him smiling back at her.

He scooped her into his arms once she was within his reach.

"Welcome back, Daddy," she said and cupped his face before she kissed his cheek.

"Someone looked exceptionally happy today," Lloyd stated, and Pearl nodded her head happily. "Can you tell me about it?"

"Pearl had fun. Lots of fun," she said, grinning from ear to ear. "Pearl also met Auntie Anna again, Daddy. She played with Pearl, too."