Red_Roses_and_Black_Dahlias_-_Macy_T

were pure, unadulterated innocence and shouldn’t have to suffer at the hands
of corrupted adults.
Valentina Raymond was only nine, but her eyes were so much older.
“You never have to thank me for helping you, Valentina. I never want you
to feel like you staying here relies on doing or—” I cleared my throat, my
words clearly bearing a double meaning, one her sister would understand,
“giving something in return. I want you here, and I will help you. Always.”
I heard Sofia sniffle from beside me but I couldn’t bear to look at her,
knowing I’d want to take her in my arms and appease her if I saw her crying.
I couldn’t. I had to put distance between us.
“Thank you Mads.” Valentina’s whisper warmed my heart, and I swooped
her in my arms before getting to my feet, making her squeal.
“How about we go out to eat breakfast huh? My dad used to take me to
that diner right outside of town where they serve the best pancakes.” I offered
a small smile to the youngest Raymond sister and she responded in kind,
nodding her head and clapping her hands.
Her excitement was dampened by the reality of the chaos surrounding us.
“But what about the mess?”
“We’ll clean up faster and better once our bellies are full, don’t you
agree?” I smirked, pulling a strand of hair away from her face.
She grinned back and nodded, “I do. Pancakes always put me in a better
mood to clean.” Mine and Sofia’s chuckles resonated around us.
“It’s a date, then. Let’s get pancakes.”