The scene unfolded with Gabriel's men escorting Aiden, Eddy and Eric inside the warehouse. Gabriel's voice boomed, echoing off the walls. "Son!!" Gabriel exclaimed, his tone dripping with enthusiasm. "You've grown so much bigger, taller, and you've become a man, just like your father." Aiden's eyes burned with anger, his voice laced with fury. "I am nothing like you, Gabriel Norman," he spat. Gabriel chuckled, the sound sending shivers down the spine. "You are nothing like me, eh?" he repeated, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Well, from what I hear, the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Whether you like it or not, my blood runs through your veins. I remember saying the same thing to my dad to you know, I said I was nothing like him but I think he was nothing like me right now." Gabriel's words cut deep, but Aiden tried to keep his cool, aware that reacting would only play into Gabriel's hands. "We got what you want," Aiden said calmly. "Where are the girls and their
"Let's get the police involved," Ryder suggested, his voice laced with concern. But Sophia's expression turned resolute as she shook her head. "No, I don't want to risk it. Whoever this is... something tells me he's more dangerous than Dante. He could hurt my sister and the girls, we have to know who we are dealing with and get a plan first ." Ryder's eyes locked onto Sophia's, filled with understanding. "You're scared," he said softly. Sophia's voice trembled. "Yes, yes i am. This was a carefully planned kidnapping. Whoever did this wants something specific, something they know we have. Let's just wait for him to call and see what he wants." Beatrice nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with empathy. "If you're right," she said gently, "and we handle this carefully, we'll get them back safely." Sophia's eyes welled up with tears as Beatrice's words offered a glimmer of hope. The room fell silent, heavy with tension and uncertainty. The phone rang, shrill in the tense si
The following morning, before the sun rose up in the sky, The family gathered in secret to plan the surprise party for Sophia's birthday. Daphne, Allen, Aiden, Beatrice, Ryder, Fiona Nancy, Eric, and Eddy were all involved in the planning process, each contributing their own ideas and suggestions. "We need to make this a day to remember," Beatrice said, her eyes shining with excitement. "My daughter-in-law deserves only the best." "I agree," Aiden said, nodding. "Let's throw her a big party with all her favorite things. We can invite everyone, Sophie would love that and have plenty of food and drinks." The group brainstormed ideas, deciding on a theme, decorations, and a guest list. They worked together seamlessly, their excitement and anticipation building as they planned the surprise party. As they finalized the plans, they made sure to keep everything a secret from Sophia. They knew she would be surprised and delighted by the party, and they couldn't wait to see her reactio
The days leading up to Christmas break were filled with excitement and anticipation. Beatrice was busy ensuring that the house in the Rocky Mountains was clean and ready for their arrival. She had hired a team of cleaners to make sure everything was spotless, from the luxurious living room to the cozy bedrooms. Meanwhile, Sophia was packing everything she needed for the trip, making sure she had enough clothes and essentials for herself, her husband, and the girls. "I'm so excited for Christmas break," she said to Aiden, who was helping her pack. "It's going to be a wonderful time with the family." Aiden smiled, nodding in agreement. "I know, me too. I'm looking forward to spending time with everyone and enjoying the snow especially with you and the girls."Sophia smiled looking at him for a moment. As the weekend approached, the family finalized their preparations. On Saturday morning, they set off to pick up Sophia's sisters, Fiona, Nancy and Daphne who were thrilled to join in o
Daphne walked into the living room, where Allen was sitting on the couch, and set the folder on the coffee table in front of him. "This is the report you requested, sir," she said professionally. Allen looked up, his eyes meeting hers briefly before he opened the folder and began to scan the contents. "Thank you, Daphne. I appreciate it." Aunt Beatrice, who was sitting nearby, chimed in, "Dinner might be ready soon, dear. You should join us before Allen tires you out with work." Daphne smiled and thanked her, "Thank you Aunt Beatrice. I'll go help Sophia out in the kitchen." As Daphne headed towards the kitchen, Allen's gaze followed her, his expression softening for a moment before he refocused on the report. As Daphne walked into the kitchen, Sophia greeted her with a big smile. "Hey, Daph! I'm glad you're here." "Hey, Sophie! How can I help?" Daphne asked, looking around the kitchen. Sophia handed her a knife and some vegetables. "Can you chop these veggies for me? I'
As they enjoyed their dessert, Allen excused himself and headed upstairs. The rest of the family lingered in the living room, savoring the sweet treats. Before long, Ava's eyelids began to droop, and she dozed off on Aiden's chest. Daphne noticed and offered to help. "Let me take her upstairs for you, Aiden. I can put her to bed." Aiden smiled, grateful for the offer. "Thanks, Daphne. That would be a huge help." Daphne gently lifted Ava, cradling her in her arms. Before heading upstairs, Mia piped up, "I wanna give everyone goodnight hugs!" Mia scampered over to Aiden, Sophia, and Beatrice, giving each of them a tight hug and a kiss on the cheek. "Goodnight, Daddy! Goodnight, Grandma Beatrice! Goodnight, Mommy !" Each of them smiled and hugged her back, wishing her a good night's sleep. With her goodbyes said, Mia took Daphne's hand, and they headed upstairs together, Ava still sleeping in her arms. Daphne tucked the girls in bed and kissed them goodnight before turning of