A quiet moment

For the ride home, Kenna somehow manages to squeeze into the back seat, and Ellie joins you up front. The cute little goblin rests her head against your arm as you drive, her eyes closed and a smile on her face. Meanwhile, the trio in the back chatter constantly, discussing everything that just happened. You tune them out as you make your way back home, simply enjoying the drive, especially with Ellie laying against you.

By the time you get home, night has fallen, and everyone piles out of the car. Ellie reluctantly moves away from you to get out, but immediately hurries over to be by your side as the group heads inside. You smile at her as she takes your hand, and she giggles quietly and smiles back.

Once you’re inside, you look at the girls, who are all grinning at you. “I know those looks. What’s happening?”

Dakota laughs. “Nothing! We’re going to get cleaned up, and you’re going to relax until we’re ready. Ellie can keep you company, since she’s feeling so clingy right now.”

Ellie nods. “I l-like this idea.”

You chuckle. “Fair enough. I guess we’ll go sit on the couch. I do feel like I’m about to get ambushed, though!”

Mazzy shrugs. “Are you going to complain, darling?”

You laugh. “Not at all!”

Kenna winks at you. “Don’t worry, we’ll take good care of you too.”

You shake your head as the giggling trio heads off towards the bathroom. You and Ellie sit down on the couch, with the little goblin snuggling happily against you. You smile and gently stroke her hair, drawing a contented sigh from her.

“So, you had a good time, Ellie?”

She nods. “Y-yes! Dave and Lisa are s-so nice, and Katie is fun. And I r-really like Saya, I l-look forward to spending more time w-with her.”

You chuckle. “You two are quite the odd match, you know. She’s gigantic and you’re tiny.”

Ellie giggles. “I know, it’s s-sort of strange. B-but she’s quiet like me, and we g-get along so well.”

You nod. “And that’s what matters. Say, I don’t suppose you know what the other girls are plotting?”

Ellie shrugs. “For t-tonight? Yes, b-but you can probably guess. I d-don’t know what they were planning earlier, though.”

You smile and kiss her forehead. “That’s fine, I’m just curious. Like they mentioned, I know it’ll be something fun, regardless.”

Ellie nods. “I’m s-sure. Mazzy is so s-smart! And Dakota t-too! Just look at what they m-made of the cafe.”

You give her a squeeze. “Don’t sell yourself short, Ellie! You’ve helped them out so much!”

She smiles at you. “I know. M-Mazzy tells me the same thing. Y-you’re all so w-wonderful!”

Just then, Mazzy’s voice interrupts. “Ellie? Come on, we’re ready, we just need you here!”

Ellie giggles, and kisses you. “See you soon, d-daddy!”

With that, she hops off the couch and heads towards the bedrooms. You’re left wondering what sort of surprise the girls have cooked up for tonight, but you don’t need to wait long. After only a few minutes, you hear Dakota call to you.