"You should apologize to Aurora. I didn't like the way you spoke to our daughter," Kim said gently but firmly, her arms folded across her chest. William sighed deeply, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I know… and I'm sorry. Mark said they're leaving tonight."
"It hasn't gotten to that, has it?" Kim asked, clearly concerned.She shook her head, disappointment on her face. "You caused this, William. You should be thankful she's even decided to stay a few more hours. Mom called her into her room God knows what they're talking about, but I pray it's something good."
William nodded solemnly.
"Gianna called," he added after a pause. "She'll be arriving tomorrow. Please, Kim… try and convince Aurora to stay. Just for a few days." I'll do my best."
A knock interrupted the moment. "You may enter… it's not locked." The door creaked open slowly.
"Mom?"
"Aurora, please come in," Kim smiled warmly, beckoning her daughter closer. Aurora made her way across the room and sat gently at the edge of the enormous bed, her eyes curious and calm. A few seconds later, William stepped into the room. He had heard voices from his private study, which was connected to their bedroom.
"You have another study in here?" Aurora asked, arching a brow. Yes, my dear. For when I need to… escape," he chuckled.
She nodded, clearly impressed.
"So… Grandma spoke to me," Aurora began, twisting the edge of her sleeve. She promised not to resent you anymore. She said it was hard for her after the loss of my brother, and that she blamed you for it, but now she's realized it wasn't your fault. She hopes I can convince you to forgive her and accept her… not as your daughter because apparently, you don't deserve that title but as your mother-in-law." And she rolled her eyes dramatically.
All three of them burst into laughter.
"That sounds like Mom," Kim sighed, shaking her head in amusement. Thank you, my dear," she said softly. "You coming back into our lives is the greatest blessing." William walked over to his daughter, playfully holding his ears. I'm sorry, Cupcake," he said in a sheepish voice, pulling the most adorable lost puppy face. Aurora burst into laughter.
"Cupcake?? Really, Dad? That's the best you've got?" Yes, because you're sweet, soft, and make my heart melt," he teased. Alright, alright… I guess I love my new name. Cupcake it is." They shared a group hug father, daughter, and mother, wrapped in love and healing.
"What good did I do to deserve this blessing?" William murmured, eyes closed as he embraced them. A moment passed before he cleared his throat. Aurora, please stay tonight," he said, eyes hopeful. "Your cousin Gianna will arrive tomorrow, and she's been dying to meet you ever since she found out you're family."
Aurora hesitated, glancing toward the window. Okay, Dad. I'll tell Mark and inform him about the sudden change of plans. Hopefully, he takes it well." Of course he has to," William grinned. "No man is allowed to disturb my Cupcake while I'm still alive."
"That's enough, Dad," Aurora chuckled, shaking her head at his ridiculousness.
"Goodnight, you two. I love you." We love you more," Kim whispered.
Meanwhile…
"Ryan."
Mark lifted his head from his laptop, brows furrowed. "Yes?" "It's your name, right?" Aurora asked playfully, stepping into the room. "Can I call you that?" He gave a small nod. "Of course. You can call me whatever you want." She hummed thoughtfully before stepping closer.
"Can we stay tonight? Just for tonight?"
Mark's expression changed. A shadow passed over his face as he stood. Aurora, I already told you I don't like spending the night here," he said, voice flat. "You should've told me about the change of plans earlier. And if I try to leave alone, your mom will probably try stopping me. Why the sudden switch? I need an explanation."
Aurora looked at him, trying to keep her cool.
"Gianna's arriving tomorrow. Dad says she's been dying to meet me for weeks." Mark rolled his eyes with a tired sigh.
"Fine."
She softened. "Did you eat?"
"I'm not hungry," he muttered, already turning toward the files neatly stacked on her desk. He took a seat on the couch, flipping one open without glancing at her again.
"Ugh, you're so annoying sometimes," she grumbled, heading toward the bathroom.
Mark watched her disappear inside. A faint smile tugged at his lips, but it quickly vanished.As the sound of running water filled the background, he leaned back, staring blankly at the open file.
His thoughts were elsewhere.His smile?Gone. Replaced by the cold, calculating mask he wore so well.