----
"Daddy?" Venice called again, her voice luring Victor back from his distant thoughts. He had been watching Rina warmly embrace Daniel, for a while now, with his distant expression.
"Hey Mr. Stranger, shouldn't we go see Mommy?" Venedict chimed in, breaking Victor's reverie.
Victor glanced at his children, their curious stares prompting him to refocus.
"Sorry, kids. Let's go to Rina," Victor replied with a gentle smile. Then he took Venice and Venedict by the hand and led them toward Rina, who remained oblivious to their approach.
"Why are you only affectionate towards Dan, Rina? It's been a while since we last saw each other too, but why didn't you hug us like you did with Dan?" Victor heard Thomas say, while Rina just chuckled.
"So, what are you guys doing here? Are you here to have fun too?" Rina asked.
