Chapter 34: A Day in the Park

The sun broke over the horizon, coloring the sky pink and gold as Olivia weaved through the busy park. Excitement rolled from every corner. Volunteers scrambled around her, erecting booths and stringing colorful banners across the walkways. And there in the center of it all stood Mark, light radiating from his face and a little boy's grin as he waved her in. "Olivia! You actually made it!" he called, jogging out to meet her. "I was worried that the early start might be too much." Olivia smiled back at how he said this optimistically. "And miss all this? Not a chance," she said, with a sweep of her arm around the chaotic, organized space. Mark's fund-raising charity event was in full swing—a fun day of activities meant to raise funds for his hospital's children's ward. Theulong Park had been transformed with games, food stands, and activity centers. "So, where do you want me?" Olivia asked, rolling up her sleeves. Mark's eyes gleamed with dormant mischief. "How's your face-paint ga