Chapter 68
As for Wilson, I’d noticed a transformation. His business was flourishing, and he’d become more measured and mature, facing challenges with a newfound calm. I genuinely felt happy for him – his growth was evident, and it was clear he’d worked hard to become a better version of himself. Our marriage may have failed, but his fatherhood and personal growth were undeniable successes.
However, he and I weren’t as close as some other co–parenting exes. Our interactions were limited
to texts about Willy. I’d only seen him once since our split, at his parents‘ fortieth anniversary celebration. He was polite and kind, which brought me relief. I was grateful he was trying to move
on and didn’t harbor any lingering hopes of rekindling our relationship – that was never going to
happen. I genuinely wished him happiness, and he’d assured me he felt the same about me.
Tonight held a special glow, courtesy of Theo’s thoughtful gesture – a intimate dinner party
celebrating the triumphant launch of his innovative rehab facility, and more personally, the homecoming of his newborn son, Alvin.
With Theo’s dinner party on the cards, I was in overdrive, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Between the whirlwind of preparations, I’d set aside a stunning maroon dress, waiting to slip into it for the evening’s family gathering.
I’d poured love into baking a scrumptious cake specifically for my brother and his family, eager to make their visit extra special. Adelaide, my sister–in–law, held a dear place in my heart, and I
cherished our bond.
I was grateful to see my dad’s health had taken a turn for the better. Though his recovery was still a work in progress, he was now able to walk, albeit with caution. My parents arrived first with Willy, and I ushered them to the cozy setup I’d prepared in the open backyard. I carefully guided my dad to
a plush chair from the office, positioning it in a spot where he could relax comfortably. The place
had been transformed into an inviting oasis, with thoughtful arrangements to hold our intimate
gathering.
With the restaurant temporarily closed for the evening, we had the luxury of undisturbed quality time together. Theo and Sebastian’s generosity meant we didn’t have to worry about lost revenue, ensuring the restaurant’s finances remained unaffected. Tonight was about family, love, and
celebration.
“Leo, stop fretting, everything’s fine,” my mom soothed my flustered state.
I called out again, “Can someone bring out the juices I got for the kids?” My mom’s reassuring smile and gentle touch on my arm eased my anxiety.
Theo arrived ten minutes later, accompanied by Adelaide and their vibrant duo of sons. Close behind, Sebastian and Katrina joined the gathering. My eyes locked onto the tiny bundle of joy in Adelaide’s arms. I couldn’t resist; with a warm smile, I hurried over to cradle the adorable baby, his delicate features and gentle coos captivating me instantly.
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“Hey beautiful boy,” I kissed his covered head over the cotton cap.
Theo gently took the baby from me, his lips brushing against my cheeks as he whispered,
“You look stunning, baby sister.” I rolled my eyes, accustomed to his affectionate teasing.
Moving on, I wrapped Katrina and Adelaide in warm hugs. “How was your week?” I asked Katrina, genuinely interested.
“Chaotic as always,” she laughed as she caressed her bump, she looked vibrantly beautiful in her
lilac dress.
Adelaide smiled as I turned to her. “How’s Levi adjusting to the new school year?”
“He’s fussy in the morning, but he’ll be fine,” she said with a shrug. “But he is loving his new teacher. And how about you?”
“Busy, duh,” I replied with a laugh, shaking my head. “Willy’s non–stop energy is exhausting, and the restaurant… well, you know how that is. It’s thriving on my energy,!” I joked, grinning at
Katrina and Adelaide.
“So, Adelaide, how’s married life treating you? Still getting used to being part of this crazy family?” I teased Adelaide, Theo didn’t proposed marriage even after being together for years because he didn’t see any difference married or not, they had some issues because of it too, but fortunately she
didn’t leave my idiot brother.
Adelaide laughed, “I think I was better off as his girlfriend!
“Hey I heard that woman,” Theo calls out as he helped Sabrina with her shoe lace and I hushed him with a playful glare.
“Tell me about it! Sebastian’s always annoying me the most, even on the days I believe I could be calm,” Katrina scoffed playfully.
“That’s because you’re a clean freak darling.” He kissed her cheek as he passed by with the wine
bottles.
We all walked inside and slid into our chairs as Sebastian calls out the small crowd. “Cheers to my brother’s son and success! And to family gatherings,” we all toasted to that.
“Where are you escaping to?” I asked, amused, as Sabrina’s demeanor shifted from sleepy to suddenly restless, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
“I’m not escaping, I want to see Willy!” Sabrina exclaimed, her voice tinged with impatience. “Is she sleeping? Can I go wake her up?”
