"Before we start the event, children need to do some warm-up exercises to relax and stretch their muscles," the teacher announced.
The children gathered together, and as the music started, they began their exercises.
The kids were still young, their bodies not fully developed, and many of them moved with uncoordinated limbs. Little legs flailed, tiny bottoms wiggled, and the variety of movements brought laughter to the watching parents.
Lance stood nearby, watching with interest. He didn't realize that his face had softened with a touch of affection and warmth.
Ten minutes later, the warm-up ended.
"Alright, our warm-up is over. The first activity is a three-legged race, which tests the coordination between parents and children. Parents, please come forward to draw lots to decide the race order and groupings."
After the groups were decided, Deanna and Chloe were in one group, scheduled to race later. Lance and Gregory were in an earlier group.
"Now that the groups and order are set, please bring your children to the activity area. The event is about to begin."
The race started with Lance and Gregory in the first group. Ten families competed in two groups.
As Lance and Gregory tied their legs together, Deanna stood by with a solemn expression.
"Gregory, go for it!"
"It's okay, just do your best. Don't be nervous."
Lance smirked at Deanna's serious demeanor. "Dr. Deanna, you look more nervous than Gregory."
Gregory laughed too. "Yeah, Mommy, don't worry. Daddy and I will definitely win first place!"
Hearing Gregory call him "Daddy," Lance's smile widened, showing no discomfort with the term. In fact, he seemed to like it.
Deanna blushed and lowered her eyes, avoiding Lance's gaze.
The race officially began, and ten families started moving. Deanna and Chloe stood on the sidelines, cheering excitedly.
"Go Gregory!"
"Go Daddy!"
"Gregory, you are the best!"
Hearing their cheers, other families also got excited and started shouting encouragements.
"Daddy, go! You have to win!"
"You are the champions, the best!"
With their legs tied together, walking was challenging. After a while, some participants had only taken a few steps.
However, Gregory and Lance moved in perfect sync, unaffected by the three-legged constraint. In no time, they had lapped the other families.
Unsurprisingly, they won their group!
As Gregory crossed the finish line, Chloe couldn't contain her excitement. She ran towards them on her short legs.
"Daddy, Gregory, you were amazing!"
"You were so fast; you left everyone behind!"
Chloe's innocent voice warmed Lance's heart. He smiled broadly.
Deanna stood stiffly beside him, glancing at Lance before looking away when she saw he had no adverse reaction.
The two kids hugged each other joyfully. Gregory shared his experience with Chloe, who listened attentively with wide eyes.
The second group began their race. Deanna and Chloe found it more challenging than Lance and Gregory had.
Deanna walked while constantly looking back at Chloe to ensure she kept up. She slowed her pace deliberately but fell behind as others overtook them halfway through the race.
Chloe puffed her cheeks and frowned in frustration. "Mommy, what do we do? We're going to lose!"
Determined not to lose after her brother's victory, Chloe quickened her steps. The sudden increase in speed disrupted their balance, causing her to trip over the rope.
As she fell backward with a sudden force, Deanna instinctively reached out to protect Chloe but was pulled down as well.
"Mommy!" Deanna's face turned pale with shock. The fall could hurt both of them badly.
In almost an instant, Deanna extended her arm to shield Chloe beside her. "Chloe!"
Seeing their mishap, many people gasped in alarm.
Just as Deanna braced for impact with the ground, a strong arm wrapped around her waist. Before she could react, she found herself securely held in a warm embrace. Lance's cool scent filled her senses.
"Are you alright?"