Chapter 243

Gabriel and Isla’s residence had never looked this alive before.The wide garden was filled with people’s laughter, music, and warmth.

Happy people were everywhere, their voices blending with the music as they worked together like a team. It was not a formal party, but a family gathering filled with love, comfort and togetherness. Nothing was forced, just family and friends, having nice time together.

The grills were set up at one end of the garden, smoke rising gently into the bright afternoon sky. The smell of seasoned meat, fish, and lamb ribs floated in the air, making kids get excited, their stomachs rumbling even before the food was ready. The men had taken over that section of the garden, despite the presence of professional chefs and staff.

Gabriel stood with Ben, Peter, Landon, Uriel, Carl, Luke Green, Carl Reese, and Jeff Green. Jeff Green, now a tall teenager, moved around the men and was proud to be included among the men. He was Betty and Luke’s son, and he carried himself with excitement, trying his best to act grown.

They had divided themselves naturally into two groups.

Gabriel, Ben, Peter, Landon, and Luke handled the grilling. They stood close to the fire, turning meat, brushing sauces, laughing loudly, and teasing one another. Gabriel rolled up the sleeves of his shirt, focused and relaxed, something that rarely happened outside moments like this.

He is the CEO of the Wyndham holdings and a leader. The wealthiest man in the whole of Richbouph. But today, he is just a husband and a father, a family man. Here, he’s just like everyone.

Uriel, Carl, Carl Reese, and Jeff handled the drinks. They stood around a long table filled with glasses, juices, mild drinks, wines, and mocktails. Jeff poured drinks carefully, listening attentively whenever one of the older men corrected him.

“Careful with that,” Carl said, smiling. “Too much ice ruins the taste.”

Jeff nodded obediently. “Yes, Uncle.”

Despite the maids and chefs waiting nearby, no one asked them to take over. The family wanted this moment to feel special and they wanted to do it themselves.

Laughter echoed again, especially when Peter almost burned a piece of meat and Ben teased him endlessly for it.

At the far side of the garden, the grannies sat together on cushioned garden chairs, shaded by tall umbrellas. Gladys, Diana, and the other elderly women chatted freely, their faces glowing with joy.

Their children had insisted they sit, relax, and enjoy themselves.

“This is what peace looks like,” Diana said softly, watching the garden.

Gladys nodded. “Yes, you are absolutely correct. I wish this peace would never seize.” It was a wish from Gladys.

They laughed, reminisced, and spoke of their children, grandchildren, and the strange way life finally found balance after all the pain they’ve gone through.

Joy filled their hearts as they watched the female children working together with smiling faces. They worked together around a long wooden dining table.

Sofie and Betsy handled the flowers, arranging them carefully in glass vases. They chose soft colors, white, cream, and light blue-keeping the decorations simple but elegant.

Mia and Maya worked on the cutlery and plates, aligning everything perfectly, making sure every seat was complete. They moved back and forth, checking again and again.

As for Betty and Sarah, they focused on the chairs, tying ribbons, adjusting cushions, and ensuring comfort.

Maids stood nearby, assisting when needed, but the women led everything with ease. Their laughter, and light conversation filled the air.

Everyone had something to do. They all belong. The children were also everywhere.

Desmond and Luke Aurelian stood near a balloon stand, pumping colorful balloons with excitement. This moment was special. They laughed when one balloon escaped and floated into the sky.

Sebastian, Elara, and the other children ran around freely, playing games, chasing one another, and occasionally stopping to steal glances at the food.

Despite how busy Aurelian was, his sharp eyes were everywhere, looking at Elara like he was shielding her from any danger. He watched as she laughed freely without bothering about anything.

As for Stone and Stephanie, they sat together near a small table, drinks in hand. For once, Stone wasn’t working. No earpiece, no scanning eyes. Just a relaxed man enjoying the moment.

They talked quietly, laughed occasionally, and simply existed without responsibility. It was a beautiful day.

Later, as the sun began to soften, everyone took their seats at the long dining table.

The chefs served the food-not the maids this time. Plates were placed carefully, filled with grilled meat, fish, lamb ribs, fresh salads, bread, sauces, and drinks of all kinds.

The table looked full. Not just with food-but with love.

Isla sat beside Gabriel, her hand resting lightly on his arm. She looked radiant, calm, and deeply happy.

Gabriel leaned slightly toward her, whispering into her ear. Whatever he had said to her made her smile.

When the plates were settled and the noise softened, Gabriel stood up slowly.

“Everyone,” he said, and the garden went silent.

Isla also rose beside him. Gabriel took her hand, squeezing it gently.

“There’s something we want to share with all of you,” he said.

Isla nodded and smiled, looking into his eyes, lovingly. Gabriel nodded at her and they each reached for something placed on the table.

Isla lifted a blue color, while Gabriel lifted a pink color. Their smiles were wide and bright.

For a second, there was silence. But when realization hit.

“Twins?!” someone shouted. And the garden exploded.

They began to clap and scream. Laughter and joy filled the air. Happiness spread around the table as everyone cheered for the couple.

John stood up immediately, his eyes shining. Gladys covered her mouth, crying openly.

Diana and Charles couldn’t hold back their tears. They hugged each other tightly, overwhelmed with happiness.

The children screamed louder than everyone else.

“Two babies!” Sebastian yelled.

Elara clapped excitedly, already planning names in her head.

Aurelian smiled. “A boy and a girl.” He shouted it out louder.

People hugged Isla and Gabriel one after another. Congratulations poured in from every direction.

“It’s a miracle,” Diana whispered, holding Isla. “Twins are a miracle.” She added.

“Yes, they are,” Isla replied softly.

Music played soon after, filling the garden with rhythm and warmth.

They all began to dance slowly and freely. Couples moved together with love in their eyes. The children spun around laughing.

Gabriel pulled Isla into his arms, holding her close.They danced quietly, their foreheads touching. “Congratulations to us,” Isla whispered.

“Yes,” Gabriel replied. “A big congratulations you mean to say?” And Isla laughed, resting her head against his chest now.

They kept talking, not thinking or looking at anyone, but themselves. Their love for one another was obvious. Everyone could see it. Even the children.

As the night deepened, laughter still echoed. Gabriel kissed Isla’s forehead. Then he finally pressed a kiss on her lips. Isla deepened the kiss, but the cheering of their family interrupted the moment and they finally pulled apart.

Isla laughed widely. It was their happy ending.