Chapter 282 - At the Crossroads

"Mr. Maine, I heard about your company's expansion plans. Very impressive," one father said, extending his hand. Logan shook it politely, but his eyes were scanning the crowd for Kayla. "Thank you, but tonight isn't about business. We're just here as parents." Deonna smiled at her husband's response, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. This was the Logan she'd fallen in love with - the one who could put family first. Finally, they spotted Kayla pushing through the crowd, still in her butterfly costume, wings slightly askew. Her face lit up when she saw them. "Mommy! Daddy! Did you see me? Was I good?" she called out, running towards them. Logan scooped her up, twirling her around as her wings fluttered. "You were amazing, sweetheart! The best butterfly we've ever seen." Deonna joined the hug, wrapping her arms around both of them. "We're so proud of you, Kayla." For a moment, they stood there, a family unit in their own bubble amidst the chaos of the auditorium. Logan cau