Heath hugged Aurora tightly, trying his best to comfort her. Lysander had specifically warned that women shouldn't cry during postpartum recovery, as it wasn't good for their health. So Heath had to figure out how to handle the situation. After much coaxing, he finally managed to calm Aurora down.Aurora looked at Heath sitting in his wheelchair and asked, "Can you stand up now?"Heath nodded, saying, "Walking's still a bit awkward, but I can manage."Aurora scooted over and patted the bed. "Come lie with me."Heath obliged, getting into bed and holding Aurora in his arms. "Get some sleep, okay?""Will you still be here when I wake up?" Aurora asked, sounding a bit childish.Heath chuckled, "Of course. I'm never leaving you again."Aurora closed her eyes, nestled in his arms, with traces of tears still on her cheeks. Heath kissed the corner of her eye and closed his own eyes. His body hadn't fully recovered yet, and he needed rest too. Being next to Aurora was where he slept most peac
It took about two or three days of Heath being by Aurora's side before she truly accepted that he was back in her life for good. She no longer insisted on him holding her while they slept, and she herself was able to rest more peacefully.Aurora had given birth naturally to the twins, without any major complications. However, the delivery had been quite strenuous, requiring an episiotomy. As a result, she stayed in the hospital for an extra week to recover and have her stitches removed before being discharged.On the day of her release, Kieran arrived early with the car, waiting at the hospital entrance. Lysander wheeled Heath out, followed by Vespera and Cheryl supporting Aurora. The hired nanny carried the babies, with the rest of the entourage bringing up the rear. As they made their grand exit, Alaric joked, "We look like a royal procession!"Vespera playfully kicked him in response, while Zane watched his brother get told off with glee. He then scurried off to help Cheryl with he
Aurora didn't want to get married just yet, purely because she felt she'd gotten too big during her pregnancy. She couldn't imagine what kind of wedding dress would suit her current figure. After all, what bride doesn't want to look stunning on her big day? She was determined to get back into her best shape first. Little did she know that such a simple reason would cause Heath so much worry. If she'd known, she would've just told him outright. Still, Aurora couldn't help but feel a bit pleased by Heath's concerned expression.In truth, Heath hadn't even noticed any weight gain. His only concern was Aurora's health and recovery, and whether she was getting enough nutrition. Her figure was the last thing on his mind.Now that Aurora had explained herself, she made it clear that she wouldn't wear a wedding dress until she'd successfully lost weight. Heath, relieved to understand the situation, had no choice but to agree.So, in addition to the nutritionist and the postpartum care special
Before Aurora could respond, Dominic had already closed the door and left. The room suddenly fell silent, as if no one had ever been there. Aurora picked up the ornate box and opened it. Inside lay two beautifuland shining diamonds. Without asking, she knew they must have cost a fortune.Aurora tucked the box into her purse, knowing she'd have to explain it to Heath later. She wasn't sure if Heath would forgive Dominic, but for her part, the anger and resentment she once felt had faded. Watching Dominic's lonely figure retreat, she felt neither sympathy nor antipathy - he was just another face in the crowd now.The interruption had eased Aurora's nerves. As it was nearly time, Vespera and Cheryl came to fetch her. Aurora opened the door and asked, "Do I look okay?"Cheryl grabbed her hand, saying, "You look perfect! Come on, bride, Heath will come barging in if you don't hurry!"Aurora picked u
After the wedding ceremony, the crowd headed to the reception hall for dinner. Aurora changed out of her wedding dress, with Vespera and Cheryl helping her into an evening gown for the toasts. Vespera had originally planned eight outfit changes, but Aurora insisted on cutting it down to three. Otherwise, she'd have spent the whole day just changing clothes!The toast dress was a long, burgundy number. After the stylist fixed Aurora's hair and touched up her makeup, she joined the party. Besides Mrs. Strider and Ms. Luce, there weren't many older relatives around. It was mostly their rowdy friends trying to get everyone drunk. Aurora lucked out - anytime someone tried to get her to drink more, either her bridesmaids blocked them or Heath's death glare scared them off. Heath wasn't so lucky though. Lysander, Alaric, and the guys were ruthlessly plying him with booze. They wouldn't dare on a normal day, but Heath couldn't really refuse at his own wedding. Even Eamon joined in on tormenti
The next day, Aurora slept in until nearly noon. If it weren't for the nanny saying the twin boys were crying their eyes out, she would've stayed dead to the world. Throwing on a robe, she shuffled to the closet to change. One look in the mirror revealed her body covered in hickeys. Aurora gritted her teeth. They were already married, but was it too late for regret? Asking for a friend, ASAP.After getting dressed and freshening up, Aurora headed to the nursery. Heath was perched on one of the tiny cribs, playing with the little ones. The babies were too young to understand him, but Heath didn't seem to care, babbling away regardless.Aurora leaned against the doorframe, watching Heath patiently entertaining their sons. Sunlight streamed in, bathing them in a warm, cozy glow. Feeling a tug at her heartstrings, she snapped a quick pic for her social media. Caption: "After weathering life's storms, I've found my calm harbor."In the photo, Heath held a tiny rattle, smiling. Night sat in
After Heath went back to work, Aurora found herself at home with nothing to do except take care of the babies. She'd spend her days looking after the little ones and waiting for Heath to come home for dinner. On the rare occasions Heath worked late, she'd get upset. Aurora didn't know what was wrong with her until one day when her friend Vespera came to visit."Aurora, you don't think you might have postpartum depression, do you?" Vespera asked.Aurora was taken aback. She thought she was eating and drinking well, without any real worries. How could she have postpartum depression? Vespera accompanied her to see a doctor, who explained that many new mothers experience this after giving birth, especially when their partner had been constantly by their side during pregnancy and suddenly isn't around as much. The doctor suggested Aurora get out more or find a job.So Aurora decided to go back to work at Skyline Media, where her old studio had been merged. It was still her passion project,
Aurora couldn't get over the fact that Night called Heath "Dada" first. Whenever she had a free moment, she'd cuddle up with Loud and try to teach him to talk, hoping he'd say "Mama" before anything else. Poor Night didn't understand why he'd suddenly fallen out of favor - his gorgeous mom was always cooing over his little brother while he got pawned off on dad.But persistence pays off. After Aurora's relentless efforts, Loud finally blurted out "Mama." Aurora was so thrilled and bragged to Heath about it for a solid week.For these new parents, every little milestone felt precious. Whether it was the babies' first smiles or first words, it all made Aurora appreciate how special life is and how lucky they were to have this family.Aurora gave Heath the diamonds Dominic had sent and told him everything about Dominic showing up at their wedding. She spilled all the details of their conversation, worried Heath might get upset. Though Heath didn't say much, Aurora knew he wasn't happy ab
The next morning, Vespera was woken up at dawn, barely getting a few hours of sleep. Known as a dedicated designer, she was usually the first one awake, but today she could barely keep her eyes open. As the stylist worked on her hair and makeup, Vespera sat half-dazed, drifting in and out, completely unaware of the hands tugging her in all directions.Two hours later, with her hair and makeup done, Vespera finally slipped into her wedding dress. The reality hit her, and for the first time, she fully realized she was about to get married.Memories flooded back, particularly that first encounter with Alaric. He’d been sprawled on the steps outside, a bit too tipsy, looking up with half-closed eyes, asking, “What’s wrong with me?” Vespera, surprising even herself, had replied, “Nothing at all.”Back then, he was just a bright, headstrong young man, carrying so many dreams and frustrations. Somewhere along the way, he’d grown into this strong, grounded man. And somehow, after everything,
It wasn’t until a few days after their engagement that it even crossed Vespera’s mind to ask about the villa.Alaric confirmed he’d bought it, explaining that he’d thought she might like it and decided to go for it. As for renovations, he wanted to wait until she officially agreed to everything; after all, they’d eventually need their own place—living with Zane forever wasn’t exactly an option.By now, the news of Alaric and Vespera’s engagement had spread everywhere. Alaric was practically ready to announce it to the world on social media, but thankfully, Aurora stepped in, suggesting he keep things low-key since he was the company CEO. Plus, Vespera wasn’t exactly a fan of the public spotlight.Alaric reluctantly held back but couldn’t resist dropping hints in his friend group chat every other day. Heath and the rest were used to it by now—except Lysander, who constantly complained that he was drowning in a sea of "lovey-dovey vibes," being the lone single guy among them.When Auror
The next morning, Alaric woke up, remembering last night’s events. He pinched himself—no, it wasn’t a dream. Vespera had actually said yes.He jumped out of bed, showered, changed, and even straightened his tie before driving to her studio. There she was, focused on work, wearing a stylish dress and light makeup, looking absolutely radiant.When he walked in, Vespera looked up, surprised. “Finally awake?” she asked with a smirk.Alaric simply nodded, taking her hand without a word and leading her downstairs. She stumbled after him, asking, “Where are we going?”Alaric gently nudged her into his car, driving her toward a villa. Vespera was clueless and a bit shocked, glancing around, unsure of what was happening.They finally arrived at a beautiful villa. Alaric opened the door, and she asked, “Did you just buy this?”&n
The next morning, Alaric was finally over his fever. When Vespera woke up, he was already waiting in the living room. After breakfast, they both headed to their respective offices.Aurora’s team reported they’d successfully returned to the Whitmore family’s estate. For her, that had been a fierce battle. For Vespera, however, the real challenge lay ahead: the design competition.Ever since her last conversation with Yvonne, where Yvonne had hinted that everything she had was due to Aurora and Alaric’s support, Vespera had been determined to prove herself. She wanted to be worthy of Alaric and was pouring all her energy into this competition.After submitting her designs, Vespera anxiously waited at home for results. When the winners were finally announced online, she saw her name in second place. The relief and pride were overwhelming. She had finally achieved something worth sharing with Alaric. Now, with the award ceremony in the UK, she had no choice but to let him know.Expecting
Vespera had reclaimed her brand, and Alaric seemed to be maturing by the day, treating her like she was his entire world. Everything seemed to be falling into place.After that showdown in Alaric’s office with Elowen, she hadn’t shown her face again. Vespera figured it was over, that Elowen had finally given up. Everyone else thought the same.But on the day they took graduation photos, Aurora disappeared. Heath and Alaric eventually tracked her down — Elowen had taken her. Vespera was frantic, blaming herself for not protecting Aurora better.Heath and Alaric couldn’t stop Aurora’s flight at the airport, so they booked tickets to the UK to get her back. Vespera had too much to handle here to join them, so she only saw Alaric off at the airport.He held her close, whispering, “Don’t worry. I’ll be back soon, and Aurora will be safe.”Vespera hugged him back tightly. She trusted him. Alaric and Heath would get this done — Elowen had crossed a line that couldn’t be ignored, and she knew
This past week, Aurora had been tirelessly setting up to counter Evelyn and her allies, Yvonne and Elowen. Meanwhile, Alaric, working alongside Aurora to reclaim Elowen’s brand.A week later, the press conference went ahead as planned. Alaric helped Vespera pick an outfit, stayed until she’d finished her makeup, and then drove her to the venue himself.The conference, led by Evelyn, was a disaster for her team. They failed to take over Aurora’s company, couldn’t drive her out of the Pendleton family, and made no progress in placing Yvonne and Elowen as CEO and head designer. Their plans had backfired entirely.Leaving the venue, Yvonne, clearly shaken, stepped in front of a car without looking and was hit, blood pooling around her. Vespera, stunned and dizzy at the sight, would have collapsed if Alaric hadn’t steadied her.Frantically, Vespera fumbled with her phone to call home, stammering, “It’s Yvonne… she’s bleeding so much…”As someone unaccustomed to such violence, Vespera was t
Alaric looked at Vespera with an innocent expression and said, “It’s not what you think. I’m not a creep.”“Not a creep?” Vespera glared at him. “Then what were you doing in my room?”Alaric almost groaned. “If I told you I was here to give you a massage, would you believe me?”“Total creep!” she shouted. “Sneaking into my bed while I was asleep!”Alaric shot back, “I did not! When I woke up, you were the one curled up on me!”Vespera paused, recalling the moment she woke up. Okay, maybe she had been cozying up to him. Wait a second—was he implying she was the one acting out of line?Seeing her hesitation, Alaric grinned smugly. “See? You were just as comfortable with it!”“Get out!” Vespera yelled.Alaric left the room, trying not to smile too much. Sure, nothing happened, but just getting to hold her felt amazing. Although… his shoulder was sore from her leaning on him all night, so he headed back to his room to grab a few more hours of sleep.Vespera, alone in her room, listened as
Vespera walked ahead, casual and carefree in a T-shirt and shorts, no makeup, and even bare of high heels, while Alaric trailed close behind with a jacket in hand, grinning like a fool. Everyone in the lobby couldn’t help but notice—their usually composed CEO was tagging along, practically beaming.Catching up to her, Alaric draped his jacket over her shoulders. “How could you leave without dressing warmer? You’ll end up with a stomach ache tonight,” he said, his voice soft with affection.Vespera felt a warm flutter in her chest but stayed quiet, letting his jacket settle around her as they walked out. Alaric was thrilled she hadn’t brushed him off; emboldened, he slipped his hand into hers, wrapping her cold fingers in his.For a moment, she stiffened, then relaxed, letting her hand nestle securely in his. Together, they headed to the parking lot, Alaric practically floating with joy. This felt better than winning the lottery!Bringing her home, Alaric felt out of his depth—things h
Alaric stood in his office, with Elowen right in front of him, her hand tugging at his tie, a faint smirk hidden beneath her slightly indignant expression.Seeing the scene, Vespera nearly turned around and left right then and there. But she reminded herself of her purpose for coming today. She was done hiding from Elowen. Even if Alaric wasn’t hers in the end, she’d be damned if he ended up with someone like Elowen.So Vespera strode into the office, fixed her gaze on them, and asked, “What’s going on here?”At the sound of her voice, Alaric spun around, fumbling to free his tie from Elowen’s grip. But Elowen held tight, glancing over at Vespera with a slight smile. “Miss Thornfield? You’re here?”Vespera closed the door behind her, gave a slight nod, and asked again, “What exactly is this about?”Elowen smirked. “Oh, it’s nothing. I just wanted to ask Alaric if I could borrow a few people to help promote my new fashion line. Not sure if he’s on board with it, though.”“Not a chance,