Their laughter echoed lightly through the quiet corner of the restaurant, drawing a few curious glances, but neither of them noticed. It was as though they were in a bubble—two old souls reconnecting, rewinding the clock with every word spoken.
Alden leaned in, still smiling. "So… you did notice me staring back then?"
Anna chuckled, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, her cheeks carrying a faint blush. "Oh, please. You were terrible at hiding it. Every time I looked up from my book, there you were—pretending to be busy with your lunch or doodling in your notebook."
He laughed, shaking his head. "I thought I was being so discreet. You know, mysterious and cool."
"Mysterious?" Anna raised a teasing brow. "Maybe. Cool?" She laughed. "Not quite. But it was… sweet. I used to wait to see if you'd finally speak to me."
"And I kept waiting for a sign you'd want to talk." He sighed playfully. "So basically, we let the whole thing pass us by because we were two hopeless shy kids."
Anna nodded, still smiling warmly. "But maybe it wasn't the right time back then."
Alden tilted his head, his eyes softening. "And now?"
Anna met his gaze. There was a quiet certainty in her eyes. "Now feels different. We're not kids anymore… and maybe fate just wanted us to grow into the right people first."
Alden looked at her for a long moment before saying softly, "Then I'm grateful fate gave us a second shot. I don't want to waste it this time."
Anna's smile lingered, touched with both nostalgia and hope. "Neither do I."
The rest of their evening was effortless—like they were simply picking up where they left off years ago, but now older, wiser, and ready to let their hearts speak. As they walked out into the night, side by side, something gentle and promising had begun to bloom—a love paused by youth, now awakened by time.
Anna smiled warmly, teasing, "So, what have you been up to all these years? Being single for that long can't be easy for an outstanding gentleman like you."
Alden chuckled softly, "Well, life happens. Sometimes it's not about what you want but what you need to do. But I see you're also single—that's why you're here today, right?"
They shared a laugh, the kind that fills the space with ease and connection.
Just then, Kara pulled up in her car nearby. As she stepped out, she caught sight of Alden walking out of the restaurant hand in hand with Anna, both smiling brightly. Her heart lifted immediately. Pulling out her phone, she quickly called Ethan and Jane.
"It's a success," she whispered excitedly. Then, with a joyful smile, she got back into her car and drove off.
The evening air was filled with a gentle buzz of excitement as Anna stepped through the front door, hand in hand with Alden. The house, glowing softly from warm lights, seemed to embrace her instantly.
Jane greeted her first, offering a genuine smile and a welcoming hug. "We're so glad you're here, Anna."
Kara, with a shy but bright grin, gave Anna a nod and quickly slipped into the kitchen to fetch drinks. Ethan, ever the quiet but warm presence, shook her hand firmly and offered a reassuring smile.
The dining room was set beautifully—candles flickered softly on the table, casting a golden glow over the polished wood. Plates were laid out with care, filled with favorite family dishes, the aroma inviting and comforting.
As everyone gathered around the table, laughter and easy conversation flowed naturally. Alden shared stories that had everyone chuckling, while Anna added her own witty remarks, instantly fitting in like she belonged. Kara playfully nudged Ethan, sparking a light-hearted debate that had everyone chuckling.
Jane told tales of the past, weaving memories that brought smiles and a few tears, while Alden caught Anna's eyes across the table, his smile full of quiet gratitude.
The next morning buzzed with excitement and nervous energy as Alden and Anna sat together, quietly discussing the plan to register their marriage. Their smiles were soft, their hands intertwined, content with a simple union — just the two of them.
But Ethan's voice cut through the calm. "No," he said firmly, eyes locked on Alden. "This can't be just a quiet, secret thing. You deserve to celebrate your love in front of everyone. It's time the city sees what we already know."
Kara chimed in eagerly, her eyes sparkling with determination. "Dad deserves the best, and we want to show him how much we care. A grand wedding — something unforgettable."
Alden chuckled, shaking his head with a warm smile. "You two are impossible, but I suppose if it makes you happy, then so be it."
And just like that, the family was set into motion. Ethan began reaching out to planners, venues, and designers, orchestrating a wedding that would stun the city — a celebration full of love, laughter, and surprises. Kara dove into the details, helping with invitations and decorations, while Jane quietly supported from the sidelines, proud to see the family coming together in such a joyous way.
As the preparations unfolded, the house buzzed with warmth and excitement — a promise that Alden's new chapter wouldn't just be quiet paperwork, but a radiant celebration of love and family for all to see.
Back in the office, Kara's transformation was nothing short of remarkable. Her once intimidating presence had softened into approachable confidence. She no longer barked orders or walked past people with a scowl. Instead, she greeted the staff with warm smiles, listened during meetings, and even stayed late working on proposals. Her dedication didn't go unnoticed.
Employees whispered among themselves — not out of fear this time, but admiration. "I never thought I'd see the day," one of the older employees commented. "She's really changed. She's actually… inspiring."
Alden observed quietly for weeks, watching her blossom into a natural leader. She handled pressure with grace, offered thoughtful ideas, and took initiative without overstepping. It made him reflect deeply. She was never the problem, he thought. She just needed healing, a place to belong… and now, she has it.
One morning, during a staff meeting, Alden stood up and cleared his throat. The room fell silent.
"I've been observing someone lately — someone whose growth has been extraordinary. She's shown passion, responsibility, and commitment not only to her work but to this entire team. That said, I would like to officially appoint Kara as the Deputy Director of our company."
There was a beat of stunned silence, then a round of applause broke out. Kara, taken aback, stood slowly, blinking as she absorbed the moment. A rare, genuine smile formed on her face.
"Thank you," she said with emotion. "I… I won't let you down."
Alden smiled proudly. "I know you won't. You've already proven yourself."
And just like that, Kara stepped fully into her potential — not just as a member of the family, but as a rising force in the company.