"I'm sincere." Nicole looked up at Gale and asked, "Right, Mommy? Daddy must be thinking the same!"

Gale nodded and said, "Yes, we welcome Joshua back to the family. He's our bravest little man, and this family wouldn't be complete without him."

Nicole's words almost brought Joshua to tears.

Gale noticed that and thought she had messed up. Joshua's return to the family was significant. He, too, was a child longing for attention, love, and warmth!

"When he is discharged, we'll have a party at home. You can invite your classmates, friends, anyone you like!" Gale said.

Nicole was the first to respond. "Great! We need to buy a very, very big cake, taller than me!"

"No problem!"

"We also need balloons! Fireworks too! Prepare lots and lots of colorful lights, snacks, desserts, fruits, drinks..."

Gale smiled and pinched her cheek. "Nicole, are you using the welcoming party as an excuse to prepare a feast for yourself?"

"No, no, it's mainly to welcome Joshua!"

Joshua, in a cool tone