Chapter 7 - THE STEPS WE TAKE TOGETHER
Eighteen months later.
The summer sun shone brightly over the rolling green hills of the Whitmore estate in Surrey.
The old, cold country house that had once served as a place of banishment for Beatrice and Victoria had been completely renovated into a vibrant, warm retreat for the family. The dark oak paneling had been painted white, the iron gates were left wide open, and the gardens were filled with blooming roses and lavender.
It was a Saturday afternoon, and the estate was hosting a celebration for Iris and Clara's fourth birthday.
Dozens of children from the local primary school were running across the massive lawn, playing games, eating cake, and chasing bubbles floating through the warm summer air.
Alexander stood on the sunlit terrace, wearing a linen shirt with the sleeves rolled up, holding a glass of iced tea. Beside him stood his head of security, Miller, who was now smiling broadly as he watched the children play.
"It's a different house, Mr. Whitmore," Miller remarked warmly.
"It's a real home, Miller," Alexander replied softly. "That's the difference."
From the glass doors of the conservatory, Grace walked onto the terrace.
She looked breathtaking in a white silk sundress, her dark hair pinned back with fresh white flowers. She was six months pregnant with their third child—a baby boy they had already decided to name Daniel, after Grace’s late brother.
Alexander immediately set his glass down and walked over to her, wrapping a protective arm around her waist and kissing her temple gently.
"You should be sitting down, love," Alexander murmured into her ear. "Dr. Evans said you need to rest."
Grace laughed, resting her hand over her round belly. "I’m pregnant, Alexander, not made of glass. Besides, I have to supervise the birthday cake."
Across the lawn, a sudden cheer broke out among the guests.
Alexander and Grace turned to look.
May you like
Near the center of the garden, a small obstacle course had been set up for the kids. Clara was already at the finish line, waving a small red flag and cheering at the top of her lungs.
At the
