“Mommy! Daddy!” Aria shrieked as she and Caden bound up to their parents unable to hold themselves back any longer. Julius scooped up Caden as Macey picked up Aria. His free arm encircled Macey’s waist pulling her close so that his entire family was in his arms. His family was final
Augustus merely smiled and offered no apology for keeping it to himself. Julius’s embrace tightened and he whispered to Macey, “Why didn’t you tell me?” “Caden doesn’t usually like a lot of attention. I figured he’d tell you when he was ready.” Macey gave him an apologet
Franklin gave them a sympathetic look but he wouldn’t interfere with parenting. Something told him there was more to the story but stayed silent. Right now he was just glad he hadn’t gone crazy and made the whole thing up like his friends insisted. “And that goes for you too,” Macey t
Six Months Later “Mommy! Mommy! Look at me! Do I look pretty?” Aria laughed as she twirled. She wore a white, sleeveless princess-style dress. The top was satin while the skirt was a gauzy material. Aquamarine and peridot colored rhinestones were applied to the flowy
She called her final design: Something Old, Something New, Something Barrowed, Something Blue. Macey hoped the Something Barrowed referred to the necklace and tiara. She was uncomfortable wearing something so extravagant and expensive though no one would tell her the actual cost. “Sha
The guests stood and turned as Aria and Caden walked down the aisle as practiced. Aria tossed handfuls of petals as they went earning many smiles from the admiring crowd. Reaching the end of the aisle Aria found she had a lot more petals than needed. Not sure what to do and not wanting to stop th
Paul sat quietly nursing his drink. The reception was held on the patio with circular tables arranged along the perimeter. Off to one side was a piano with the center left open for the dance floor. The largest table held not just the bride and groom but the entire DaLair family from its reigning
Aria pulled her dad’s ear close whispering, “It’s time for your dance, daddy.” Julius smiled standing and carrying her to the piano. Setting Aria down he offered his hand to Macey who blushed. Taking his hand she allowed herself to be led to the center of the patio. Caden situated hi
“Mom and I were planning to play later,” Alexis said. “You can too if you want.” “Really? Thanks,” Caden immediately brightened. “…So you based the décor on the diner you used to work in,” Macey said after listening to Ava’s brief retelling of her past. “Were you thinki
Silas’s embrace tightened. He hated thinking about the trials she went through without him. Ava leaned against him relishing his comfort and support. Their past was not as important as their future. “You two aren’t going to go all kissy-face, right?” Theo asked. “We’re in public and
Two Months Later The restaurant was lively. Guests had been arriving for the past two hours eager for a unique dining experience. The staff was well-trained providing exceptional service despite the rush. They had been drilled in their duties by the restaurant’s manager, a tyrant the
She nodded. “Going down?” Silas repeated. “Just what have you three planned now?” “It was more like a hunch,” Lexi said. “Sean found something real interesting when he deep-dived Ryker Holdings. So we asked Duncan to keep an eye on someone, just in case.” “D
“Late? A test for what?” Silas asked not following. “Are you serious?” Tracy snorted a laugh. “Ava, you’re going to have to be a little clearer,” Opal chuckled. “Remember, it’s his first time.” Silas glanced from one to the other even more confused. Looking
“There you three are,” Tracy said as the trio returned to the party. “We were just about to send the search party to find you.” “Auntie Tracy, you’re so silly,” Alexis giggled. “How are you feeling mom?” Ava hugged her tight but Alexis didn’t feel any tension or strain in
Finding no support anywhere Jenna finally fled. No one paid her further mind as they watched the kids swarm around their parents comforting their mother. It was a sweet and tender scene and many began to see Silas in a completely different light. * * * Jenna screamed as she storme
Jenna stepped forward intentionally shoving her shoulder and made Ava stumble back. “W-What is—” Jenna stuttered as the video paused. “Who was calling who shameless?” Alexis demanded standing next to her mother arms crossed in front of her chest. “So playing with people’s
The music started slowly with just a few notes announcing the beginning of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy. The simple melody became more complex as notes overlapped and weaved a new organic pattern but always maintaining the integrity of the piece. Conversation lulled as everyone turned their