When they returned with big and small bags in tow, Zachary Santos had already arrived at Ann Nolan's house.
The bedroom door was open, and Zachary Santos was bending over to pick up Little Candy.
"When did she wake up?" Ann Nolan hurried over.
"She was already awake when I arrived," Zachary Santos said with a smile.
The man still looked the same, but after a year of tempering, his bearing had grown more composed and seasoned. His grey sweater accentuated his tall and athletic figure.
Little Candy wasn't crying; her large eyes were looking around everywhere.
She was very familiar with Zachary Santos, probably because she hadn't seen him in a long time, she reached out for a hug.
"Bubba..." the little one was happily causing a fuss.
Zachary Santos was skilled at holding children; Little Candy liked him very much.
"She was fussy all night yesterday, but today she still has the energy to play with you," Ann Nolan said, amused and exasperated.
