19#19

19

"Absolutely not."

Kiana retreated, seeking comfort in Denver's embrace instead of moving forward.

Denver, despite being only 14, was already quite tall at about 5'9", towering a few inches above the portly older man before them.

From the instant Denver laid eyes on the guy, particularly the second time, he felt uneasy.

When the man gazed at Kiana in that unsettling way and extended his hand towards her, Denver had to restrain himself from striking the man.

The elderly director swiftly intervened, offering a smile to diffuse the situation.

"Mr. Crane, please don't be offended. Our children aren't accustomed to meeting new people, so they tend to be reserved. I can assure you, though, that Kiana is a bright and lovely girl. She'll become more comfortable with you and your wife as she gets to know you. If you're committed to adopting her, spending more time together might be beneficial."

The man said little, merely smiling and nodding, but his gaze remained fixed on Kiana.