Chapter 3:Growing Up

Eight months had passed since Regina's first year, and today was her first birthday. The house was decorated with simple yet vibrant banners and streamers, reflecting the care and effort Ethan had put into making the day special for his daughter.

Ethan stood in the living room, arranging a small cake with one lit candle on the table. He glanced towards the crib where Regina was playing with her toys. "Regina, sweetheart, are you excited for your special day?" he asked, his voice filled with warmth and anticipation.

Regina, now one year old, looked up with wide, curious eyes. She had grown accustomed to the routine of her days but remained cautious. Despite Ethan's efforts, her heart was still guarded. Why does he make such a fuss over me? she wondered, though a small part of her was touched by the effort.

Ethan walked over and gently picked her up, holding her close. "Today is all about you, my little princess. We're going to have a small party and eat some yummy cake."

Regina's gaze followed him as he carried her to the living room. The room was filled with a few friends from the healing center and the restaurant. Eliza, the restaurant owner, was among the guests, her face beaming with affection.

"Happy birthday, Regina!" Eliza greeted, holding a small gift wrapped in colorful paper. "I hope you have a wonderful year ahead."

Regina's eyes remained wary, but she managed a small, polite smile. Why is everyone so kind to me? Is it because they have to be? Her skepticism was ever-present, though she did feel a flicker of curiosity about the gift.

Eliza gently placed the gift in front of Regina, who reached out to touch it with cautious fingers. Ethan smiled, his heart swelling with pride. "Go on, Regina. Open your gift."

As Regina carefully peeled away the wrapping, she revealed a soft, stuffed bear. Her tiny fingers explored its texture. It was different from the toys she was used to, and for a moment, her expression softened.

Ethan knelt beside her, his eyes filled with joy. "Do you like it? I thought it would be a nice friend for you."

Regina's thoughts were conflicted. It's soft… and it's kind of nice. But the fear of attachment tugged at her. She looked at Ethan with a mixture of appreciation and hesitation. Does this mean he cares, or is it just another part of his act?

Later, as Ethan prepared the cake, he spoke to Regina softly. "You've grown so much this year. I remember when you were just a tiny baby. Now look at you so curious and bright."

Regina's tiny hands reached out to touch the cake, her gaze fixed on the candle's flickering flame. It's pretty, she thought. She watched as Ethan carefully lit the candle and placed it in front of her.

"Make a wish, Regina," Ethan said, his voice full of encouragement. "Blow out the candle."

Regina stared at the candle, her mind racing. What should I wish for? Can I even trust this moment? Her skepticism mingled with a burgeoning sense of hope. She took a deep breath and blew out the candle, the soft puff of air extinguishing the flame.

The room erupted in cheerful applause, and Regina looked around, her expression a mix of confusion and intrigue. Ethan clapped with enthusiasm, his eyes shining with pride. "Well done, my love. I hope your wish comes true."

As the day went on, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy. Ethan continued to shower Regina with affection, his every gesture and word aimed at making her feel loved and cherished.

Later that night, as Ethan rocked Regina to sleep, he whispered, "I'm so proud of you, Regina. I love you more than words can say. You're my everything."

Regina's eyes fluttered as sleep began to claim her. He says he loves me, but can I ever truly believe it? Her heart was a battleground of past pains and new possibilities. She closed her eyes, and the warmth of Ethan's embrace was both comforting and confusing.

In her mind, Seraphina's voice provided a gentle reminder. "Regina, trust is not built in a single day. It is a journey, and you are making progress. Allow yourself to feel the love and warmth around you."

Two years had passed, and Regina was now three years old. She had grown into a bright and observant child, her every movement a blend of caution and curiosity. The bond between her and Ethan had not deepened; instead, Regina remained distant, her emotions carefully guarded. Despite Ethan’s unwavering love and constant efforts, Regina’s trust issues persisted, casting a shadow over their relationship.

One sunny morning, Ethan was in the kitchen, preparing breakfast. The aroma of pancakes filled the air as he called out, “Regina, breakfast is ready!”

Regina, sitting on the living room floor surrounded by her toys, glanced towards the kitchen. She stood up and walked over, her expression neutral. Why does he always do so much for me? she wondered. What is he expecting in return?

Ethan smiled as she entered the kitchen. “Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well?”

Regina nodded slightly, her face betraying no emotion. “Yes, Papa,” she replied, her voice soft.

Ethan’s heart ached at her lack of warmth, but he masked his sadness with a cheerful tone. “I made your favorite pancakes with strawberries. Let’s eat together.”

As they sat at the table, Regina’s thoughts reached out to Seraphina, her ever-present guide. Seraphina, are you there?

System Status:

Operating as Wisdom Queen Seraphina…

Initializing Communication Protocol…

“Yes, Regina, I am here,” Seraphina’s soothing voice echoed in her mind. “How can I assist you today?”

I’ve been practicing the mana control exercises, but I still don’t understand emotions, Regina thought, frustration tinging her words. Why can’t I feel anything towards Papa?

“I can guide you in your training and help you understand your abilities,” Seraphina responded, her tone gentle yet firm. “However, understanding emotions is beyond my capabilities. Emotions are complex and must be experienced and explored on your own.”

Regina sighed inwardly, her frustration deepening. It’s so confusing. Why is it so hard to trust and feel?

Ethan’s voice broke through her thoughts. “Regina, is something on your mind?”

She looked up, meeting his concerned gaze. “No, Papa,” she said, her tone flat. He doesn’t need to know what I’m struggling with, she decided. I can handle it on my own.

After breakfast, Ethan suggested they spend some time outside. “It’s a beautiful day, Regina. Let’s go to the park. We can have some fun together.”

Regina reluctantly agreed, her expression still guarded. As they walked to the park, Ethan held her hand, his grip gentle and reassuring. He pointed out various flowers and birds, trying to engage her in conversation.

“Look, Regina, there’s a bluebird! Isn’t it pretty?” Ethan said, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

Regina nodded absently. Why does he care so much about these things? she wondered, her skepticism still strong.

At the park, Ethan pushed her on the swing, his laughter ringing out as he encouraged her to go higher. “You’re doing great, Regina! Higher and higher!”

Regina clutched the chains, her face emotionless despite the exhilaration of the swing. He tries so hard. Why can’t I feel the same happiness he does?

That evening, as Ethan tucked her into bed, he read her a story about a brave princess who overcame many challenges. His voice was soothing, and his presence comforting, yet Regina’s heart remained distant.

“I love you, Regina,” Ethan whispered, kissing her forehead. “Sleep well, my little princess.”

Regina closed her eyes, her mind racing. He says he loves me every night. Why can’t I feel it?

In her mind, Seraphina’s voice offered a gentle reminder. “Regina, emotions are not something that can be forced or learned quickly. They take time to develop and understand. Be patient with yourself.”

I’ll try, Regina thought, though the path ahead seemed uncertain. But it’s so hard to trust and feel anything.

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