The morning sunlight streamed through the mansion's windows, casting a warm glow.
Sofia's arrival brought a bright smile to Aria's face.
"Sofia, thank you so much for coming," Aria said.
"You've been an immense help to us."
Sofia's eyes sparkled.
"I'm happy to be of assistance."
Aria's gesture was genuine.
"You're welcome to stay as long as you need."
Sofia nodded, her smile widening.
"I'd gladly move here tomorrow evening."
Jack, seated in his wheelchair, chimed in.
"Sofia, you're also invited to Leo's engagement party tonight."
Sofia's face lit up.
"Really? Oh, thank you!"
Leo, standing nearby, grinned.
"We'd love to have you."
Sofia waved to the rest of the family.
"Thank you, everyone. I'm so grateful."
Mrs. Hilda beamed.
"We're happy to have you join us."
Daniel nodded.
"You're part of the family now."
Sofia's eyes shone.
"I feel like I'm home."
As Sofia departed, the family exchanged warm smiles.
Aria watched her leave.
"I'm glad she's staying," Aria said.
"Me too," Jack replied.
Leo chuckled.
"And now she gets to experience our crazy family gatherings."
The room filled with laughter.
Anticipation built for the evening's celebration.
Leo's engagement party.
A night of joy.
Unaware of the shadows lurking outside.
Allison's plans unfolding.
Dr. Lee's arrival imminent.
The family's happiness was about to be tested.
Jack's eyes widened in shock as he gazed at the figure standing before him.
"Mom?" he whispered, incredulity etched on his face.
Aria's gentle smile offered explanation.
"Jack, I brought her here because I think it's time—"
"Why?" Jack interrupted, his voice laced with pain.
Aria's hands wrapped around his.
"Forgiveness, Jack. It's time to forgive."
Jack's gaze shifted to his mother, Mrs. Linda.
Tears streamed down her face, her eyes red-rimmed.
"Jack, my baby," she sobbed.
"I'm so sorry. I was wrong to leave you, at such a young age when you needed me the most please forgive me"
Jack's resolve crumbled.
He saw the desperation in her eyes, the regret, and the love.
Tears pricked at the corners of his own eyes.
"Mom," he whispered.
Jack's arms stretched out.
She ran towards him, Embracing her son.
Tears flowed freely.
Mrs. Hilda's eyes shone.
Aria smiled.
Mr. Edward's face lit up, "Son!" he exclaimed.
Jack turned.
"Dad!"
Father and son shared a warm hug.
The room filled with laughter.
Tears of joy, reunion, and forgiveness.
As they stepped inside.
Planning Leo's engagement party, it Became a family affair.
Laughter echoed.
Mrs. Linda helped Mrs. Hilda.
Preparing the feast.
Aria and Leo discussed decorations.
Daniel's gaze lingered on Ivy, concern etched on his face. She had been in the bathroom for what felt like an eternity, the sounds of retching growing more frequent. He knocked gently on the door, his voice low and worried.
"Ivy, are you okay?"
The only response was the continued sounds of discomfort.
Daniel's anxiety escalated. He swiftly exited the room, calling out to the rest of the family.
"Everyone, come quick! Ivy needs help!"
The urgency in his voice summoned them swiftly. Aria, Jack, Leah, and Mrs. Linda converged on the room, their faces etched with worry.
As Ivy emerged from the bathroom, towel pressed to her mouth, her pallor was evident. Daniel's eyes locked onto hers, his brow furrowed.
Mrs. Linda's experienced eyes assessed the situation, her expression transforming into a warm smile.
"It's normal, dear," she said, her voice soothing. "Morning sickness is a classic symptom."
Ivy's confusion lifted, replaced by a dawning realization.
Daniel's eyes never left Ivy's face, his anxiety giving way to a mix of emotions.
Mrs. Linda's words dropped like a blessing.
"Ivy's expecting."
The room seemed to hold its breath.
Then, joy erupted.
Aria's face softened, a bittersweet smile playing on her lips. Jack's eyes locked onto hers, his expression understanding.
Leah's squeal pierced the air.
"SO IVY'S PREGNANT!"
The room filled with congratulations, hugs, and tears.
Daniel's face lit up, his eyes shining. He spun Ivy around, twirling her in a gentle circle.
Ivy's radiant smile matched his.
A new life.
A new beginning.
The family's warmth enveloped them, a sense of unity and love filling the space.
As they celebrated, Aria's gaze drifted to Jack, her thoughts momentarily with their lost baby. Jack's gentle squeeze on her hand reassured her, his eyes filled with empathy.
Aria's slender fingers worked through her brown locks, styling them into a messy bun. Her eyes, reflected in the mirror, shone with a hint of sadness. She applied her makeup with precision, concealing the shadows beneath her eyes.
The white gown hugged her curves, its slim fit accentuating her delicate frame. Yet, her gaze lingered on the flatness of her stomach, a poignant reminder of their lost baby.
Jack, seated in his wheelchair, watched her with compassion. He sensed her turmoil, but hesitated to intrude on her thoughts.
Aria's eyes met Jack's in the mirror.
She turned, her heels clicking on the floor.
Jack's face softened as she approached.
"Aria, you look stunning," he said.
Aria's smile faltered.
She knelt beside him, her hands on his knees.
"Jack, I promise," her voice trembled.
"I'll find you the best physiotherapist."
"I'll help you walk again."
Tears welled in her eyes.
Jack's hands enveloped hers.
"Aria, don't cry," he whispered.
She buried her face in his shoulder.
Jack's arms wrapped around her.
His lips brushed her hair.
"I'll walk again, Aria."
"For us, and For our future."
Aria's sobs subsided.
She lifted her face.
Jack's smile reassured her.
Together, they held onto hope.
The engagement party awaited.
Leo and Leah's joy.
A celebration of love.
Daniel's fingers gently intertwined with Ivy's as he expertly styled her hair. Soft strands framed her face, accentuating her radiant glow.
Ivy's eyes met Daniel's in the mirror.
"Perfect," he whispered.
His hands drifted to her stomach.
"Soon, we'll welcome our little one," he said.
Ivy's smile blossomed.
Daniel's eyes crinkled.
"I can't wait," he continued.
"To meet our baby."
"To watch you be an amazing mom."
Ivy's cheeks flushed.
Daniel's hands enveloped hers.
"Ready for the party?" he asked.
Ivy nodded.
Together, they stood.
Daniel offered his arm.
Ivy's hand slid into the crook.
They descended the stairs.
Laughter and chatter filled the air, it was
Leo's engagement party, A celebration of love.
Daniel and Ivy's hearts swelle, With joy.
Their future unfolding.
As they joined the gathering.
Mrs. Linda beamed.
Aria smiled.
Jack's eyes sparkled.
Leah squealed.
"Daniel! Ivy! You two look stunning!"
Leo grinned.
"Welcome to our party!"
The evening unfolded.