Chapter 128 Bringing a Child Home
The moment Maggie discovered Fiorello's deceit, she felt as though their shared life, once sweet and tender, had been nothing more than a cruel joke. She had been nothing but sincere with Fiorello, her heart an open book. Yet, he had been distrustful, questioning her at every turn. Maggie was consumed by a profound sadness, a restless unease that gnawed at her. She couldn't reconcile herself with this deception. She had never coveted Fiorello's house, nor had she ever sought to have her name inscribed on the property title. However, as Fiorello's wife, she believed she had the right to know. The more she pondered on it, the deeper her distress grew. Just as she was about to rise and depart, she felt a sudden tug on her skirt. Maggie was taken aback. Glancing down, she discovered a little girl hidden beneath the bench. The little girl was Adalia. Adalia peered timidly up at Maggie, her small hand clutching tightly onto the fabric of her skirt. Maggie crouched down, curiosity sparking in her eyes, and gently asked, "Little girl, why are you hiding here? Come out quickly, be careful not to hit your head." Adalia didn't come out. She shook her head but didn't release her grip or utter a word. For a moment, Maggie was at a loss. She gently asked, "Little girl, are you playing hide-and-seek with other kids?" Adalia shook her head again, her gaze never leaving Maggie. Looking into Adalia's eyes, Maggie felt an inexplicable connection. "Little girl, can you tell me your name and where you live? I'll take you home, okay?"Adalia's reaction was immediate and vehement. At the mention of going home, she shook her head vigorously, her grip on Maggie's skirt tightening. Seeing Adalia's continued silence, Maggie couldn't help but suspect that the child was mute. She glanced around, noting the absence of anyone else, and wondered where this little girl had come from. Suddenly, Adalia crawled out from under the bench, her large eyes fixed on Maggie. She clung tightly to Maggie's hand, as if fearing she would vanish. With her other hand, she touched her stomach.At first, Maggie didn't understand Adalia's gesture. It was only when she heard the rumble of Adalia's stomach that she realized. "Little girl, are you hungry?" Maggie asked gently. Adalia nodded. She hadn't eaten since the previous night, and her hunger had left her almost weak.The sight of Adalia's pitiful eyes stirred a deep sadness within Maggie.She offered, "You can come to my house. I'll make something delicious for you, okay?"Adalia nodded and wrapped her small arms around Maggie in a hug.Maggie smiled, gently patting Adalia's head as she led her home.Given that the little girl had appeared in the complex, it was likely she was a resident's child.While Adalia was distracted, Maggie snapped a picture of her and posted it in the homeowners' chat group, inquiring if anyone had lost a child. After sending the message, Maggie switched on the living room TV for Adalia to watch while she retreated to the kitchen to prepare spaghetti.As she cooked, Maggie would occasionally peek into the living room.Adalia sat quietly, engrossed in the TV, her demeanor lacking the usual vivacity of children her age.Maggie couldn't help but sense that something was amiss with Adalia. The child looked so pitiful.When the spaghetti was ready, Maggie brought it out. The aroma caught Adalia's attention, and she quickly clambered onto the dining table, starting to eat heartily.
Maggie hurriedly said, "Little girl, slow down. It's a bit hot."Adalia seemed not to hear Maggie's words. Despite the heat, she continued to eat in big mouthfuls, as if she had been starved for a long time.Adalia clung to her plate, eating hungrily, and Maggie quickly poured her a glass of water."What's your name, little girl?" Maggie asked, her heart aching for the child.Adalia was beautiful, and Maggie knew she would grow into a stunning woman.But for now, Adalia was too small and thin, appearing somewhat malnourished.After finishing her meal, Adalia rubbed her stomach, a satisfied look on her face. She became increasingly attached to Maggie, climbing into her arms and lying down.Maggie was taken aback for a moment. She hadn't yet grasped Adalia's intention when she heard the child softly call out, "Mom, I'm so tired."Hearing Adalia's words, a strange sensation filled Maggie's heart.She looked down at Adalia, who nestled in her arms like a pitiful little kitten. Instinctively, she held Adalia closer and whispered, "Sleep tight, sweetheart."
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