With Eva and Wanda gone, the first two floors had undergone a full makeover; brand-new furniture restored a sense of order and peace to the house.

No longer restricted to the upper levels, Arthur and Milton could finally enjoy the first floor, hosting guests in a proper family sitting room once again.

As soon as Elliana and Cole entered, twins in their arms, Arthur and Milton hurried over, both eager for a turn holding Beatrice. Although Arthur and Milton cherished Felix, Beatrice was the star today, their first real chance to dote on her after so much turmoil.

Arthur beamed, never letting his smile fade as he showered Beatrice with affectionate words.

Milton grinned, gently brushing his hand across Beatrice’s cheek before admiring her tiny fingers and toes.

Seeing how much Milton adored the baby, Elliana couldn’t resist teasing him.

“You’re so great with kids, Milton. Maybe it’s time you settled down and had a few of your own.”

Milton lifted an eyebrow at her words. Her suggestion was far easier said than done. Years devoted to his career and the search for his lost family had left him with little time—or inclination—to think about settling down. Romance and parenthood simply hadn’t entered his world, and he had never noticed anyone who might change that.

Elliana, picking up on his hesitation, kept up her playful prodding.

“How about this? If you’re not seeing anyone, why don’t I set you up with Adah? She’s smart, gorgeous, and I’ve known her forever. Honestly, you’d make a great match.”

Before Milton could respond, Cole frowned at Elliana, silently begging her to stop talking. His old friend Allan had been hanging on to hope, desperate to meet Adah, who had captured his heart.

Every secret between Cole and Elliana had come out, so he knew all about Adah’s real background. Allan, however, was still clueless.

All Allan knew was that the woman who had captured his heart in an instant was named “Ava.” He had no idea she was really Adah, the same fiancée he had once dismissed and pushed aside so cruelly.

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Since that night at Nightfall, Allan hadn’t seen “Ava” again. Missing her more each day, he constantly hounded Cole for updates.

Determined not to blow Adah’s cover, Cole repeatedly assured Allan that Ava was overseas and would be home eventually. If Elliana really matched Milton with Adah, Cole wondered how he would ever be able to explain things to Allan.

Elliana, noticing the tension in Cole’s face, leaned closer and whispered, “What’s wrong?”

Cole knew hiding the truth any longer would only create a bigger disaster. Keeping his voice low, he told her everything.

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