Aiden saw the two children, who were no older than eight years old, emerging from behind the bushes. “Don't tell me you are lost,” Aiden joked. He figured these must be the cupcake selling duo. But Nathan wasn't sure about him yet. “Do we look lost?” Nathan remarked. “Well technically you are lost because this is my property, and you are obviously trespassing,” Aiden answered. “Well we are not lost. We are friends with Mrs. Lewis,” Nate confessed. “Really! Is that so?” Aiden laughed. He observed the two children. The boy looked as if he didn't want to be there and the girl looked quite shy. She was hiding behind her brother, looking like a pretty plump-cheek doll. “I'm Aiden,” he stretched his hand out to Nate. The boy looked at Aiden's palm and smiled. Finally, a man who was treating him like a man as well. “I'm Nathan and this is my twin sister, Nola,” he shook Aiden's hand. Nathan was surprised when he didn't hear his sister's voice, so he turned to look at her, and she was
The next morning, Katherine still couldn't believe that the children made almost fifteen hundred dollars. She checked it over and over in her head. She made them 240 strawberry-filled cupcakes and 240 lemon squares. That's a total of 480 cupcakes, so if they had sold them at $20 per dozen, they should have made $800, not $1480. “Tell me again how you two made so much money?” Katherine asked while she sipped on her camomile tea. “Mom, we already told you, we're business people, and we know how to make deals,” Nathan beamed. “Don't worry, Katherine. The children sold them fair and square. We met a nice man who bought the remaining cupcakes for twice their value,” Miss Polly added as she placed a plate of scrambled eggs and toast in front of Katherine. “Yeah Mom, don't worry, we didn't steal it if that's what you're thinking.” Nola grinned. “Oh honey, I would never think that of you,” Katherine sighed. She was still on edge about the impending bad review from her disgruntled cus
It was a quiet day at the Café. Katherine barely made half of what she normally made today. She wondered what could cause such a slow business day, but then she saw a flyer on her desk. The mayor was having a conference on the other side of the town, and the whole town was there. Katherine sat in her office and decided to call Taryn. “Hey girl, how's it going?” Taryn answered. “Not bad even though things are slow today because the Mayor's in town holding a conference.” “I see. So, how are the kids?” Taryn asked. “They're fine. They are at school right now,” Kat replied. “So how's Liam? Is he coming to work on time?” “Yes, your brother is an awesome partner. Although he gets distracted by the ladies way too often,” Taryn chuckled. “Oh by the way, how was brunch the other day? Did Nate get on the baseball team?” “No,” Kat sighed. “What? But Nate is so good.” Taryn confessed. “I meant no as in, brunch never happened. The guy flaked. He phoned the restaurant and told t
Katherine and the twins arrived at the fair around 3:00 in the afternoon. The place was beautifully decorated and had different rides and attractions. Vendors and patrons crowded the venue, and sounds of laughter and excitement filled the air. "I can't wait to go on the rollercoaster," Nola clapped with glee. She and Nate had never been on one before, and they were eager to try it out today. Nola's eyes lit up, and her smile broadened as she saw the ride dipped and rolled in the air. She couldn't wait to experience the happiness that the ride must bring. “I'm excited to try that slingshot ride over there,” Nathan stated as he pointed in the direction of the ride, where people were screaming with their hands either in the air or over their faces. Katherine couldn't tell if they were screams of joy or screams of pain. She gulped when she saw the ride shoot out like a slingshot and the people were thrown about like rag dolls. “That ride looks pretty scary, don't you think, Nate?” Kath
Aiden's smile was smacked off his face by Katherine's threats. “Wait a minute, I'm not here for that, I'm simply here to enjoy the fair,” he confessed as he gestured around his surrounding. “Oh, I thought you were here to antagonize me,” Katherine gulped while she ran her sweaty palms down the side of her pants. “And how would I know you would even be at the fair? It's not like I'm stalking you or have intel about your every move,” Aiden added. Katherine felt like an idiot now. “You're right, Mr. Windsor. I feel so silly now," she giggled awkwardly. “Look, Mrs. O'Hare, I am over our last encounter. I was having a bad day, and I'm normally a gentleman. You just caught me on an off day, that's all,” Aiden admitted. “Really?” Katherine asked. She found that difficult to believe. “Yes really, and I also want to apologize for the way I overreacted. I am sorry, Mrs. O'Hare, for my outburst; for insulting you; threatening you and I apologize if I made you uncomfortable that
Things were going swimmingly for Aiden that evening. He and Katherine were sitting on a bench under some palm trees enjoying popcorn and snow cones. He felt like he was on top of the world with every word he and Katherine exchanged. "Can I ask you something?" Aiden inquired after taking a drink from his snow cone. "Sure," Katherine replied, as she indulged in the salty, buttery snack. "Why did you choose baking as a career choice?" Katherine paused at the unexpected question. She took a breath before answering. "Well, it wasn't my first choice," she began. "You see, my parents wanted me to become a lawyer, but after a summer road trip in my final year in high school, I realized that wasn't what I wanted." She looked at Aiden, who now seemed more intrigued. "I met someone who taught me that doing what I loved, rather than doing what was expected, is the key to happiness." She smiled as she remembered all the things she learned from Nile. "That person sounds very smar
TWO MONTHS LATER It was the end of the Christmas term, and the twins were doing extremely well in school. There was a Christmas concert being held, and the students were being rewarded for their exceptional academic excellencies. A small ceremony was expected after the Christmas performances, plus there would also be a guest speaker who would also be responsible for handing over the awards to the children who were being awarded. Katherine didn't know that the guest speaker was none other than the city's own Aiden Windsor. Katherine was extremely proud of her kids. Nathan was being awarded the first place awards in Science and Geography, while Nola was getting first place prizes for Mathematics, English and Social Studies. Nathan was second in Mathematics, English and Social Studies and Nola was second in Science and Geography. Their mother couldn't be more proud, her children were outstanding and everyday she prayed God would continue to bless them and keep them safe. Kat was s
Katherine’s hands trembled as she painted her lips with the red lipstick Taryn loaned her. All the makeup that was applied to her face was actually courtesy of her best friend. The only thing Kat owned that could be considered makeup was her cherry blossom lip balm. “More,” Taryn commanded. “Don’t you want him to cower at your luscious lips?”“No, I’m not a harlot.” “Gimme that,” Taryn grabbed the lipstick. “Here, just pucker up,” Taryn held Kat’s jaw and applied more red. A knock sounded at the door. “Thank God,” Kat sighed, feeling thankful for the interruption. "Katherine, are you decent?” It was Katherine's mother. “Come on in, mom,” Kat said. Her mom entered with a smile on her face. “Wow! Honey, you look amazing.” “Thanks mom,” Kat smiled. “I haven’t seen you dolled up like this since —” her mom trailed off. “Anyway, the kids are ready to go.”“Thanks for getting them ready mom, I just need a few more minutes to get my hair styled,” Kat replied. “They are very impati
Two Months LaterAfter receiving that text two months ago from that burner phone, Aiden knew it was from Violet. He did some digging and found out that she was indeed back in America and had visited Mrs. O'Hare to announce her engagement to her Jamaican lover, but Mrs. O'Hare was happy for her daughter and prayed that their love was genuine. Aiden also hoped that Violet would keep her distance, but he knew better. He told Katherine that she was back in the country, but he didn't tell her about the message that he got. He did not want her to worry, so he thought it was best not to tell her, hoping Violet would just stay away from them. In fact, Aiden realized that Katherine was becoming a little stressed out at work, and was feeling sick, so he didn't want to add to her problems. "I'm fine Aiden, it's just the flu," Katherine reassured before she began to down the bowl of chicken noodle soup Mrs. Lewis had made for her."I know, but I think it's best if you visit the doctor or at l
After settling down and going back to work a few days later, Katherine told Taryn about everything that went down on the honeymoon. From the creep at the villa to the weird encounter at the souvenir shop. "Girl I would have freaked out. You know I hate those voodoo stuff," Taryn said as she handed Kat some paperwork. "I was scared as hell, but Aiden quickly got me out of there," she stated as she sat at her table and began browsing the documents. "I'm glad you and Aiden had a good time despite that.""Yeah it was really great," she remarked as she signed the papers that Taryn had given to her. "These are some of the orders we have coming up," Taryn stated as she handed Kat the tablet with the information. Katherine swiped the tablet screen as she observed the information. She suddenly rolled her eyes, and Taryn noticed."What's wrong?" "Oh, nothing really, it's just this one order," she said before showing Taryn the order. "The wedding cake?""Yeah, the violet themed wedding ca
"We're home," Katherine announced as she entered the living room of her house. "Mom," the twins yelled in excitement. They both ran and gave their mother a big bear hug. Her parents and Taryn came behind the twins with large smiles on their faces. "Oh, I've missed you two," Katherine breathed as she inhaled the scent of her children. "We missed you too," Nola said. "Yeah, we're glad you're back, mom," Nate added. "Wait a minute, don't I get any hug?" Aiden asked as he entered, dragging two suitcases and a bag behind him. "Uncle Aiden," the twins exclaimed. They then gave him a hug as he kissed Nola's head and ruffled Nate's hair. They all hugged and exchanged pleasantries. "I can't wait to see what you have for us," Nate said while rubbing his hands together."Yay, presents, presents," Nola cheered. "And I can't wait to see the pictures you guys took," Mrs. Riley added. "And I can't wait to hear the stories." Taryn said as she raised her eyebrows cheekily. "And boy, do I ha
The honeymoon was now over and Katherine and Aiden were at the airfield, waiting on Aiden's private jet. Matteo and Kai were also there to assist with the luggage. Ten minutes later and both men were loading the luggages on to the aircraft while Aiden helped Katherine with her hand luggage. "Thank you so much, Matteo, for your hospitality," Katherine thanked him as he placed the last of the suitcases in its position. "You are most welcome, Mrs. Windsor," he smiled and did a little bow. "And Mr. Windsor, I do apologize again for that minor mishap at the store and also for the invasion of your privacy at your villa." He finished. "That's alright Matteo, our trip was still a memorable one," Aiden made clear. "Yes, it was amazing," Kat added. "Oh," Matteo began. "Before I forget, I just want to say congratulations in advance," he finished and Katherine and Aiden looked at him confused. "Congratulations? How many times are you gonna say that?” Aiden grinned and patted the middle-age
After Aiden phoned Matteo, he didn't get the satisfaction he needed because Matteo wasn't aware of anyone being in the vicinity of the villas during that time of the evening. Matteo however promised that there will be security officers posted in that area, and they wouldn't be bothered like that again. That wasn't enough for Aiden because for the next couple of days he had an uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach, like whoever came by their villa was there to watch or harm them. He tried his best to brush the feeling aside and not make Katherine worry, but it was in vain. His mind even began stressing about work and the direction his company was heading. He wanted to take his mind off all of that, so they were going on their final excursion in the town. Kai came to pick them up around 11 am, with Matteo in tow. "What's bothering you?" Katherine asked him as he looked out the window of the car. "Oh, nothing really," he smiled at her. "I'm just thinking about work.""Really, Ai
For the next four days, Katherine and Aiden were in honeymoon bliss. They went on scenic hikes, snorkeling, shopping in the town for souvenirs for themselves and their loved one. They would check in with their families two times for the day, and every phone call was an enjoyable one. The twins would make it clear what they wanted from the trip. And each time, it was something different. Aiden tried his best to meet all their demands, while Katherine adored how he and the kids had a wonderful relationship. "Why are you laughing at me?" Aiden asked his wife as he rummaged through some items that he had already gotten. "I just think it's cute how the kids have you all riled up," she smiled as she kissed his cheek. "Laugh now, but I know the kids will love all of these," he stated. "I'm making sure I have everything. I can't seem to find the bag of sweet and spicy Taki pretzels for Nate.""Taki pretzels?" Katherine questioned. "I didn't even know they made those.""They do, and Nate
The newly-weds were over the moon about their honeymoon, even though they had been flying for quite some time on Aiden's private jet. Katherine, however, did not know where they were going, so she was in shock when the pilot, Frank, announced that they were at their destination, which was Bora Bora. She always dreamed about going there to experience the beautiful beaches and peaceful ambiance. She mentioned it once to Aiden when they had just met, and he was definitely taking notes because this was a dream come true for her. "Welcome to one of the most surreal places on earth, Bora Bora," Frank announced over the intercom. "Thank you, Frank. And spectacular flying," Aiden commended. "Thank you, Frank," Kat also said. "I hope you two have the most wonderful and memorable honeymoon," Frank continued over the pager. "Thank you," the newly-weds replied in unison.When the jet landed, two men and a lady came to greet th
The ride over to the reception venue was about fifteen minutes. When Katherine and Aiden got there, the guests were already there. The flower girl and ring bearer entered first, and then the bridal party. "Ladies and gentlemen, please stand and make welcome the beautiful newly-weds, Mr. and Mrs. Windsor," the MC announced, and the audience erupted in cheers and applauses as Aiden and Katherine entered the beautifully decorated room. "Now, the newly-weds will do their first dance as a married couple," The MC spoke, and the audience sat back down. All eyes were set on Aiden and Katherine as they slowly walked to the centre of the ballroom. The soothing sounds of Paramore's Only Exception began to play over the speaker. Aiden smiled and pulled Katherine closer to him. The crowd looked on as they began to move to the melody of the song.The quiet whispers drowned out, and soon, Katherine felt like she and Aiden were the only ones in the room.She looked at him and smile. "Mm hmm," sh
Aiden and Katherine promised they wouldn't see each other the day before the wedding, and that was driving both of them crazy. Aiden wanted to see her so badly, especially after getting some liquor in his system at his bachelor party. He yearned for her, but he tried his best not to break his promise.They spoke over the phone after the bachelorette party and even fell asleep while still on the phone with each other. The next morning, the sound of bells and whistles woke Katherine up. Her mom, Nola and Taryn, were all jumping in excitement and joy."Get up, sleepy head," Nola said before kissing her mom on the cheek. "Yeah, get up sleepy head, it's your wedding day," Mrs. Riley cheered as she rang the two small wedding bells she was carrying. Taryn then joined in with the sliding whistle. "Katherine, what's happening?" She heard over the phone. It was then she realized that Aiden was still on the phone. "Aiden my love, it's getting crazy over here," she laughed. "I can only ima