"This place is great," Penny remarked as the nun walked her out of the building. They passed several rooms filled with bright, happy children. Their adorable laughter and voices filled Penny’s ears.
The nun chuckled and nodded. "It is. This place has been here for a long time, after all. We had helped hundreds, thousands of children."
"Oh?" Penny raised a brow. "I didn’t know this place has been here for a long time."
"It is not as high profile as other orphanages, but it’s been here for ages. I was raised here, Mrs. Granger," the nun said with a hint of pride. "At one point, I was just like these children—abandoned, unwanted. But thanks to the teachers, the sisters, the sponsors, and everyone who gave us everything they could, I decided I wanted to be part of this orphanage’s mission. Many of us grew up here, including some of the teachers you’ve seen today. That’s why we understand the children better than anyone."
Penny tilted her head slightly, surprised by the information. "Sister, you look very young. I think... we’re about the same age."
"I wanted to be a nun from a young age," she replied. "So, I entered the convent as early as I could."
"I see." Penny’s smile returned, though a part of her remained cautious. Something about this place didn’t sit right with her. But she wasn’t sure if the nun was deliberately ignoring her subtle hints or if she truly didn’t pick up on them.
As they stepped outside, Penny suddenly stopped. Her eyes locked onto a group of children playing nearby.
"That child..." she murmured, her gaze fixed on the same little one who had clung to Jonathan the other day.
"Hmm?" The nun followed Penny’s line of sight and immediately spotted the only girl playing with the boys. A small smile appeared on her face as she glanced at Penny.
"That’s not a girl, Mrs. Granger."
"Huh?" Penny turned to the nun sharply. "She’s not a girl? She looks very girly to me."
"He has long hair and enjoys dressing up. This place gives children the freedom to express themselves and choose what they like," the nun explained gently. "It’s part of teaching them independence early on. So while he may wear unisex clothing that leans more feminine and keeps his hair long, he’s a little boy. A smart and very sweet one."
Penny’s mouth fell open slightly. ’No wonder they didn’t include him in the selection. I specifically told them I was looking for a girl.’
"Can I talk to him?" she asked.
The nun smiled, but there was a hint of finality to it. "I’m afraid you can’t. Someone has already applied to adopt him. His paperwork is being processed."
"Who?" Penny blurted out before realizing her mistake. The nun raised a brow, and Penny quickly waved it off. "I mean, never mind. That’s unfortunate. I kind of liked him. Even though my husband and I were looking for a girl, I thought I might make an exception since he’s so cute."
The nun chuckled. "That’s understandable, Mrs. Granger." She nodded. "I’ll give you a call once I get permission from the principal."
"Yes, thank you."
They exchanged polite smiles before Penny turned and walked away.
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