The D'Angelo estate was in chaos—but a good kind of chaos. Streamers, balloons, and fairy lights decorated the sprawling garden, transforming it into a wonderland for Andrew and Hadassah's first birthday. The air was filled with laughter, children's squeals, and the scent of a towering birthday cake that looked like it had been designed for royalty.
At the center of it all was Sophie, who was holding a squirming Hadassah dressed in a frilly pink dress, while Ethan chased after Andrew, who had somehow managed to grab a cupcake and smear icing all over his tiny suit.
"Ethan!" Sophie called. "For goodness' sake, he's not auditioning for a food fight!"
"I'm trying!" Ethan huffed, finally scooping up his giggling son. Andrew responded by smacking his dad's face with icing-covered hands.
Margaret, who was sipping lemonade by the buffet table, chuckled. "That boy has your energy, Ethan. You've met your match."
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The Arrival of Grandma Vivian
The sound of a car horn blaring interrupted the scene, and everyone turned as Grandma Vivian made her grand entrance. She stepped out of her car with a flourish, wearing a leopard-print outfit and sunglasses the size of dinner plates.
"Who's ready to party?" Vivian announced, striking a dramatic pose.
"Grandma, it's a one-year-old's birthday," Ethan said, exasperated.
"Exactly! And I intend to celebrate like it's my own," she retorted, handing a massive stuffed giraffe to Andrew and a sparkly tiara to Hadassah.
"Vivian," Martha muttered, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Couldn't you at least try to tone it down?"
"Never," Vivian replied with a smirk. "Now, where's the champagne?"
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Mia's Big News
As the party continued, Sophie's best friend, Mia, waltzed in wearing a gorgeous emerald-green dress and a diamond engagement ring that sparkled so brightly it could've doubled as a disco ball.
"Mia!" Sophie gasped, rushing over. "Are you—are you engaged?"
Mia grinned, holding out her hand for everyone to admire. "Surprise!"
"To who?" Ethan asked, narrowing his eyes suspiciously.
"That's for me to know and you to wonder about," Mia teased, wagging her finger at him.
"Knowing Mia, it's probably some billionaire," Margaret quipped, joining the conversation.
"Or a secret agent," Vivian added dramatically. "Don't underestimate the girl."
Mia simply laughed. "Let's just say he's someone who makes me very happy."
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The Cake Fiasco
When it was finally time to cut the cake—a masterpiece with two tiers, each adorned with tiny fondant figures of Andrew and Hadassah—the twins had other plans.
Hadassah reached out and grabbed a handful of frosting, smearing it all over her face, while Andrew decided the cake topper was a snack and promptly bit into it.
"Andrew!" Ethan yelped, trying to pry the figurine out of his son's mouth.
Hadassah, not wanting to be left out, threw her frosting-covered hand at Ethan, hitting him squarely on the nose.
Margaret laughed so hard she nearly spilled her drink. "I told you they were your kids, Ethan. Chaos follows you everywhere."
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The Emotional Reunion
As the sun began to set, everyone gathered for the family reunion portion of the evening. Old photographs were displayed on a projector screen, showing generations of D'Angelos, as well as Sophie's family.
Martha stood up to say a few words. "Today isn't just about celebrating Andrew and Hadassah; it's about celebrating family. Through all the ups and downs, we've always come together. And seeing these two little ones reminds us of how much love there is to share."
Sophie wiped away a tear as she leaned into Ethan. "I can't believe how far we've come," she whispered.
Ethan kissed her temple. "Me neither. But I wouldn't trade it for anything."
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The Dance Floor
Grandma Vivian, naturally, was the first one on the dance floor, dragging a reluctant Ethan with her.
"Come on, Mr. Big Shot," she teased, spinning him around.
"Grandma, stop!" Ethan groaned, but he was laughing by the end of it.
Mia joined in, pulling Sophie up to dance. Soon, the entire family was on the floor, twirling under the fairy lights as the twins clapped along from their highchairs.
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Ethan's Quiet Moment
Later that night, after the guests had left and the twins were fast asleep, Ethan stood in the nursery, watching his children.
Sophie walked in, wrapping her arms around his waist. "What are you thinking about?"
"How lucky I am," Ethan said softly. "I've got you, I've got them… I've got everything I've ever wanted."
Sophie smiled, her eyes glistening with tears. "You're not so bad yourself, Ethan D'Angelo."
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The End
And as the moonlight streamed through the window, bathing their little family in its glow, Ethan and Sophie knew their story had only just begun.
The End.