Ch. 181..190
Chapter 181
Chapter 181
That's a better arrangement. You'll have support because caring for a baby isn't easy during the first few years. "Everyone's told me that," Deborah said with a laugh.
Just then, the door opened, and Elliot returned, carrying his sketchbook and a portfolio.
Fabian was with him, holding a tray with three glasses of juice and some folders.
"I think that's enough for today, Fabian, George said when he saw the folders.
This is the last batch for today, sir. In the afternoon, you'll be free to review all the finalists' designs from the contest."""
Alright, George said, letting out a sigh.
"Here you go, Deborah, Fabian said, handing her a glass.
Thank you"""
It's strange to hear you talk, but it's a nice change, he remarked before leaving to return to his desk. "Look, Debbie," Elliot said, sitting close to her as he opened his sketchbook. "These are the drawings I made based on the idea you told me about in your messages," he said, handing her the notebook and opening the portfolio that contained samples of the precious metals and gems the company was currently working with.
Let's see, she said, starting to analyze the designs he had made for the special locket she wanted. "I like this one in the middle," she declared, pointing to a round locket with a laurel crown design, accented with small rubies to highlight the yellow diamonds. "It's beautiful," George said, looking at the drawing. "What material do you want, Debbie?"
Since they're yellow diamonds, Elliot suggested either white gold or platinum for the base, but I'll leave that up to you both, she said, pulling a small jewelry box from her purse that contained the jewelry made from her mother and grandfather,
My dear friend... George said, feeling a pang of sadness as he opened the box and gently touched the earrings and ring inside.
Debbie, I swear I'll handle them with the utmost care and turn them into something even more beautiful, Elliot said, carefully taking the jewelry box.
I know, that's why I'm entrusting you with this task, she said. "And tell me, how much is it going to be? I'd like to pay you upfront," she added, pulling out her wallet.
No... Debbie, I'm not going to charge you. How can you ask that of me?
Oh no, that won't do, Elliot, at least charge me for the materials you'll use.
Son, Deborah is right. Even though we love her dearly, we can't afford to give away materials. I understand you don't want to charge her for your work, but as she said, at least charge her for the value of the materials you'll use, George added. "Because if you don't, you'll be just like your brother, who took
jewelry to give to that woman for free."
Ouch... that comparison stings, Dad.
Then take your drawing to Charles so he can help you calculate the costs.
*Alright, I'll be right back," he said, leaving the jewelry box behind as he exited the office with the sketch in hand.
Oh, that boy.
Elliot is an artist.
I know, Debbie, but as you've noticed, despite his studies, he's terrible at pricing his creations, George said with a sigh.
Roger was good at that.
Yes... God, they could've been a great team, but as you see...
Yes... by the way, have you heard anything about them?
Not about Isabelle, and honestly, I'd rather not hear anything about her... I'm still angry about all the harm she caused, George said. "But I have someone keeping an eye on Roger from a distance because despite everything he did... well... he's still my boy." "I know, you're a great father who loves his children very much."
Hm... and it seems he's found his own path. He's now working at a pawn shop, and from what I've been told, he's doing well and staying out of trouble.
It seems he needed to hit rock bottom to change his attitude.
*Debbie, if he shows he's changed... would you forgive him and go back to him?"
I could forgive him, but I wouldn't go back to him because now I have Jayden, and I'm the happiest woman in the world with him-I feel complete, loved, and valued. And I love him very much too.
And I respect that, but don't forget this little one needs to spend time with me so I can spoil him, he said, pointing to her belly.
Of course, James needs to spend quality time with all three of his grandfathers, she said with a smile. "Hey, while we wait for that boy to return, want to help me with the contest?" George suggested. "A different perspective would help us choose the winner of the design competition," he said, noticing her excitement as she agreed. Soon, they settled in to review the drawings.
Chapter 182
Chapter 182
As the days went by, it became increasingly difficult for Deborah to stay active, which frustrated her a little. She felt useless because even taking a few steps would leave her tired. "You know, son, you're not making this easy," she complained, pausing her typing for a moment to stretch a little, as she couldn't stay in one position for too long
, we need to finish this work because, with my flexible schedule, there's no excuse for not taking a vacation, she said, feeling a little kick in response. She chuckled, realizing she was now arguing with her baby.
Deborah made a face as she remembered how that morning, she had argued with Jayden for the first time, thanks to her hormones. She didn't want to be left alone at home.
Part of her understood why he needed to go to work, but another part didn't because she wanted to spend the whole day with him.
Ah... what are we going to do... it's the first time I've argued with your dad... and he left for work upset and sad because of me, she said, caressing her belly and receiving a few more kicks in response. "Right, let's cook him something delicious as an apology and wait, he hasn't been coming home for lunch lately,
she said, starting to cry.
Just then, there was a knock on the door, so she went to open it and found her mother-in-law standing there. Seeing the tears in Deborah's eyes, Samantha grew concerned.
Debbie, what happened? What's wrong? she asked, worried, thinking she might have hurt herself.
It's just that... Deborah burst into tears and hugged Samantha, her mind a mess as she could not really understand why she felt this way.
Alright, calm down. I'm here to support you, Samantha said in a motherly tone as they walked into the house. Come, let's sit down so you can tell me why you're sad, okay?"
After a while, Deborah managed to calm down and finally put her thoughts in order, explaining what had happened that morning, though she felt a bit embarrassed about admitting it. "Aww... how sweet," Samantha said.
Don't tease me.
But Deborah, it's normal to argue with your partner every now and then, though in this case, it was more your cravings and desires speaking than an actual argument. "Craving? But I thought that only happened with food."
Every woman is different, and today you had the craving to spend the whole day with my son, didn't you?
Um... Deborah blushed at Samantha's teasing tone.... because it was true, that's exactly what she wanted: to spend the whole day in bed with her partner making love.
Don't worry, having sexual cravings is also natural in your condition.
But why only now...?
Because you're finally at peace. Before, you were under the psychological pressure of the divorce, and then there were those goons, Samantha explained, taking her hands. "Now that you're enjoying calmer days, your body is allowing itself to experience the various cravings and discomforts that every pregnant woman goes through."
I suppose that makes sense, but I still feel bad for arguing with him and even pushing him out of the house.
He probably feels the same way, but I think if you explain everything to him like you just did to me, he'll understand.
I think so too...but... what should I do? I feel like a beached whale who can't move, and I just want to go see him.
And what, do you think I'm invisible or something? Samantha scolded, noticing that Deborah had stopped crying. "Go change your clothes, because being cooped up isn't good for you. I'll take you to see my son in a bit."
Thank you, Deborah said, hugging her. With that, she headed to her room to change.
The older woman chuckled at the drastic change in her mood. While waiting, she sent a text message to her husband, asking him to help Jayden.
After reading his wife's message, Eric went to check on his son, who was supposed to be reviewing some plans at that moment but was staring blankly into space instead. Eric sighed and decided to get two cups of cold coffee to have a talk with him. Despite being at work, Jayden couldn't focus. He still didn't understand what had happened that morning. all he knew was that he had been kicked out of the house to go to work.
Everything okay, son? Jayden looked up to see his father sitting beside him, offering a cup of coffee.
Chapter 183
Chapter 183
Well, I don't know... I had a big argument with Deborah this morning and... I don't know... I don't know why it happened, but I feel bad because we've never fought before.
Well, son, every couple has disagreements in their married life, his father said, taking a sip of his drink. What's important is how you resolve that conflict without making the problem bigger." "Hm..." Jayden sighed and took a big gulp of his drink.
Can I ask what the argument was about?
"It was about work because today she asked me to stay with her... but I had to come in, and when she kept insisting, I decided to call you to say I wouldn't be coming in. Then suddenly, she got mad and pushed me out of the house, telling me to leave because it was obvious I cared more about work than her.
Ah... so that's what happened,"" Eric said with a knowing smile, recalling a similar experience with his own wife. He had a pretty good idea of what was going on. ""In that case, son, don't worry, this isn't anything serious."""
Because I think I know how this will end, and all I can tell you is that women are such beautiful and mysterious creatures that sometimes they expect us to be mind readers. They say things half-heartedly, assuming we know what they want, and when we don't, they get upset.
What? But... that doesn't make any sense, Jayden replied, confused. "And Debbie isn't like that."
You'll see I'm right eventually, son. So, for now, just focus on your work, and when you get home, you'll find that things will have sorted themselves out.
Jayden watched as his father stood up to continue supervising the workers, leaving him deep in thought. but he decided to follow his advice and focus on his work.
By the afternoon, everyone was getting ready to go home and rest.
As he walked to his car, Jayden thought about stopping by the nearby bakery to buy some cream and strawberry pastries and also picking up two liters of mint chocolate chip ice cream-his beloved's most frequent cravings.
But just as he was approaching his car, he saw Deborah standing there waiting for him, holding a bouquet of carnations and a large heart-shaped helium balloon that said, "Forgive me?"
Deborah? he quickly approached to hug her, but she extended her hands to offer him the flowers and the balloon, avoiding the contact.
Jayden, L... please accept this as an apology.
Jayden blushed a little and, without saying anything, took the gifts, noticing that she wanted to keep talking.
I... um... you see... I'm sorry about what happened this morning. It's just that I wanted... well, I didn't really want you to go to work... but I know you're the one in charge, and um... well... I... Deborah was still too nervous to organize her thoughts, but then she felt him pull her close to kiss her on the lips.
It's okay, my love. I'm not mad. I'm just confused because this is the first time we've ever fought.
"I'm sorry... it's just... I didn't even know what I wanted, she said, starting to cry.
'Don't cry. Just tell me, what did you want?"
Um... that... She blushed and tried to hide her face in his chest. "I wanted to..." she mumbled the last part too softly to be heard. "What?"
I wanted you and me to... she repeated, her voice still too low to hear.
Huh? Debbie, speak up because... he began to say, pulling away a bit to see her.
I WANTED YOU TO STAY AND HAVE SEX WITH ME ALL DAY! she shouted, turning completely red and closing her eyes out of embarrassment,
Her declaration made people passing by stop and stare while Jayden was left in shock, his face also flushing.
And now why aren't you answering me? she complained, opening her eyes and starting to tear up. "You don't want to because I'm fat, right?"
Seeing that the drama was about to start again, he acted quickly, pulling her in for a passionate kiss to stop her tears.
Don't rush, my love. You didn't even let me answer.
"But..
Instead of a verbal response, how about I show you my answer?"" he teased, handing her the flowers and the balloon so he could pick her up and carry her to the hotel that was nearby."
Chapter 184
Chapter 184
As the days passed, Jayden began to discover a new side of Deborah, one that he liked, a lot.
He finally understood why some of his coworkers had told him that when a woman is pregnant, she can develop multiple personalities.
He hadn't believed it at the time because back then, his partner only got a bit irritable when she didn't get the sweets or food she wanted. But now he was slowly re-discovering a woman who was eager and passionate, something that surprised and delighted him. So, to avoid a repeat of the previous situation, he decided that this weekend he would devote himself entirely to his beloved.
Good morning, he said playfully, kissing Deborah on the lips as he felt her stir a little.
Good morning. she replied with a smile.
How are my loves this morning?
A little sore and tired.
Well, that's because someone didn't want me to stop last night, he teased, noticing how she suddenly blushed.
Um... I don't know what you're talking about, she said, turning her gaze away.
Uh-huh, he said, amused. "You know, I like this lustful Deborah."
Greedy.
Me or you?
Let's take a shower and have breakfast, he said, giving her another kiss on the lips. Carefully, they both went to take a shower and then to eat..
So, what's the plan for today? Deborah asked as she helped him prepare breakfast.
We're going to check out the final changes we'll make to the house before we move into the mansion. "Um, well... about that, I'm still not sure..."
Don't worry, my love. They won't be upset because, as they told you, it's a family tradition for the young couple to take the main mansion, and the older generation moves to the annex. Plus, they now prefer a slightly smaller place. "Yes, but I still feel like I'm kicking them out of their home, and I don't like that."
You're not. I promise.
His reassurance made her feel more at ease, so they finished breakfast and got ready to head to the mansion to review the final changes before the baby's arrival.
By the way, Caroline's a bit upset that we won't be neighbors for long, she said, remembaring k
+25 BONL
co when she told her they were moving.
True, but she's welcome to visit us whenever she wants.
You know she's just joking: she understands why we're doing this, and she knows it's better for me to have someone around for James.
Yes, and since we're first-time parents, it's better to have the support of my parents, who have some experience in this area.
Yes, she agreed, smiling as she placed her hand over her beloved's, continuing their conversation until they reached their destination.
It didn't take long for them to arrive at the mansion, where they were already expected.
Welcome, Samantha greeted them, walking over to hug Deborah.
Thank you.
You're right on time because Omar just arrived to discuss the final changes to the house, Eric informed them, giving his daughter a kiss on the cheek.
So, we're in sync, Jayden joked as they entered the house and made their way to the living room, where they were awaited.
Hello, good morning, greeted a young man with who was finishing arranging some items on the table. Take a seat, I've just laid out everything I have to offer
Everyone sat around the table, listening carefully to the suggestions Omar had to make the house safe.
And here I have these socket covers because once little James starts crawling, he'll want to touch everything. Omar said, handing the device to Deborah From experience, I recommend these with a lock mechanism because my little one managed to remove the old kind, and she almost electrocuted herself if it hadn't been for my wife stopping her in time."
your daughter okay?" Eric asked, concerned.
Chapter 185
Chapter 185
It was just a scare, and that's why I'm recommending this brand because it requires a trick to remove, Omar explained, demonstrating how it worked.
That's good because a baby's instinct is just to pull, Samantha commented.
In that case, please install this protector on all the low sockets in the house, Deborah requested.
Of course, Omar said, making notes in his planner. "Now, let's move on to the main area-the living room," he continued, projecting some images on his laptop. "Jayden mentioned that you currently work from home, so although we're changing the furniture in the living room to these," he said, showing the new layout in the projection, "they'll be made of comfortable and easy-to-clean materials. In this space on the right, I'll create an area where James can be close to you but without invading your workspace, complete with built-in storage where you can keep his things if you need to change his diaper."
I like that. This way, I won't have to leave the room when I need to take care of him, Deborah said, excited about the design.
"You've really thought this through, Omar, Jayden complimented, seeing that it was a perfect design that met their needs and tastes.
Well, as I said, I learned a lot when my little princess was born,"" Omar admitted with a shy smile. ""Now, moving on to the decorations in the house, it would be best to replace anything fragile, at least until little James is about four or five years old."" ""True..."" Eric said thoughtfully. ""What do you suggest, Omar? Wood or plastic?"""
Either one is fine, as long as it doesn't break or splinter when it falls to the floor, Omar said, turning to pull something out of his backpack. "Actually, Camellia sent me these samples that she recently found and wanted to show you." "Camellia?" Deborah asked.
"She's my colleague, and she found a company that makes these, Omar said excitedly, pulling out a beautiful white vase with blue designs.
Oh, what a lovely ceramic piece,"" Eric said, noticing that his wife had taken the object."
Wait, love, this is plastic, Samantha said, surprised.
Exactly! This company makes plastic replicas that are very realistic, so you won't feel like the baby is taking over your space.
"Wow... that's true. I thought it was a real piece of ceramic too, Deborah said, holding the vase.
In that case, we can make replicas of everything we have at home, keeping the real ones away until James grows up."" Jayden suggested as he examined the object."
Although that's no guarantee, since whether they're a baby or a child, they'll always find ways to get into trouble, Samantha commented.
"I also have this special paint, which you can clean with a cloth to remove crayon, marker, and color
stains."
Wow, they didn't have that in my day! I had to repaint my office because someone made it their modern art canvas, Eric joked, glancing at his son..
And do you remember what happened to my vanity when someone climbed up and used all my makeup to create a beautiful Mother's Day drawing? Samantha jokingly asked.
Did you really do that? Deborah asked, looking at her partner.
I didn't know what to do then. He had used expensive makeup that I had just bought... but when I saw his little face all smudged with colors and his hands outstretched, saying 'I love you, Mommy,' all my anger disappeared. "What a little manipulator," Deborah teased.
five va
In my defense, I was old, and I thought whatever my parents used was free for me to use as well.
Luckily, nothing serious happened, and I just had to run out and replace all the makeup he ruined, Eric said, making everyone laugh.
Deborah continued to listen to the anecdotes of a young and mischievous Jayden as they finished selecting all the changes they would make to the mansion.
Chapter 186
Chapter 186
After discussing all the significant changes they wanted for the house, Omar left with Jayden's parents to see what modifications would be made to the annex to ensure the remodeling didn't compromise comfort.
It looks like Omar is going to be very busy, Deborah commented when she was alone with Jayden.
That's true, and technically, that's a good thing.
Well, since we're here, come with me. I want to show you something, Jayden said, taking her hand and guiding her through the house until they reached a specific room.
When they arrived, she noticed a sign on the door that read: Jayden's Building Block Lab
Jayden smiled and opened the door, revealing a fantasy-themed room.
Deborah had seen it in some photos he had shown her, but seeing it in person was a different experience. She noticed many detailed projects on the large table in the middle of the room, which seemed to depict a large city with trees and even vehicles "What do you think?" Jayden asked, both embarrassed and nervous.
Deborah was amazed, even spotting constructions of airplanes, helicopters, and helium balloons hanging from the ceiling. "This looks like a paradise for imagination."
Well, technically, this is an urban paradise, he corrected. "The fantasy is over here," he said, flipping a switch to illuminate a distant part of the room where a landscape with castles and dragons could be seen. "It's clear this is your passion, my love," she said, carefully touching one of the buildings.
I told you.
She smiled and leaned in to give him a kiss, then began exploring the entire room while listening to him explain how he built each structure and how long it took. "Hey, isn't this the new hotel?" she asked, recognizing the construction,
Yes, when I get inspired, I like to first build the idea with my blocks before creating the 3D design and blueprints. Of course, some adjustments are made later. "You have great talent," she said, noticing that every small detail was meticulously planned, including the gardens and trees that accompanied each building. "My love... you know... I know this room will be off-limits for a while," he said nervously.
Huh? She looked at him, confused. "Why?"
Well, you know, there are small pieces, and James...
Oh... well, when you put it that way, I understand. But when he's asleep, you can come here if you want. I'll never stop you from enjoying your passions and hobbles.
I know, my love, he said, taking her hands. "But it's something I've decided on my own. Although, I'll
warn you in advance that when James is old enough, I'll bring him here to play."
I like that plan, my love. We can both teach him our passions, she said. "And I can already see the hours. of fun you two will have together. You can even start by buying those big block toys for him to play with. "Yes, and speaking of which, look, I bought this for you, he said shyly, pulling a box from the closet and handing it to her. A yellow note was stuck to it.
Deborah opened the box, amazed to see it was a set to build a bouquet of roses out of building blocks. The note read: You and me building a bouquet of flowers? :D?
Jayden blushed and looked away, expecting rejection, but instead, he felt her kiss him on the cheek.
"I accept
Really?"""
Yes, but you'll have to help me because I see there are some new types of pieces I'm not familiar with.
Of course, and we can make all of these too, he said excitedly, showing her that he had bought other boxes with different flower models and even one for a large vase. Seeing that, Deborah laughed as they settled at an empty table to start opening the boxes and begin building together.
Meanwhile, two pairs of eyes were discreetly watching what was happening.
Aww... they're so cute, Samantha whispered, snapping a photo with an instant camera.
Poor Debbie, they'll probably stay there until dinnertime. Eric commented.
Darling, the chef should make hamburgers. I'm sure our grandson would like that.
On it, Eric said, turning toward the kitchen to inform the chef about the menu. Chapter 107
Chapter 187
Chapter 187
Samantha smiled as she watched the photo develop in her hands.
I told you, son. The right person would come along at the perfect moment, someone who would love and accept you for who you are, with all your hobbies and quirks, she whispered, looking through the doorway at Jayden and Deborah, who were already having fun building the flowers.
Her thoughts drifted back to that afternoon when she had talked to her son about this very issue.
-Flashback-
It was a hot afternoon, and Samantha had just returned from a meeting when she heard a loud crash, which startled even the servants in the house.
The noise came from Jayden's playroom, so she forgot about her fatigue and rushed to see what had happened.
Son, what... what happened here? she asked, frightened, seeing her son crying and his castle, which had taken him a week to build, lying shattered on the floor
I don't want it anymore... Jayden said through sniffs, pointing at his toys while trying to hold back his
tears.
What... why, my love? You love building things, she said, approaching to hug him and offer comfort. "I don't want to play with these silly kids' toys anymore," he said, clenching his fists.
Are you sure? Because I can see on your face that it hurt when your castle broke, she said, trying to get him to look her in the eyes.
It's just that...
Come here, son, she said, guiding him to sit beside her so she could hold him close. "Now, tell me what's going on. Why don't you want your building blocks anymore? I know you love them. You even asked your father to bring you new sets when he returns from his trip, didn't you?"
Yes... he murfitaled, staring at the floor.
So, what happened?
"It's because Maria broke up with me. She said my interests are for nerds and babies...
Samantha looked at one of the servants who had approached, silently questioning the latter with her eyes.
It's true, ma'am. The young master's girlfriend came over, but then she yelled horrible things at him and stormed out of the house,"" the servant confirmed."
Well, that girl is an Idiot, Samantha declared, frowning
Mom, language, Jayden said, laughing as he wiped away his tears.
Oops... but you get my point. And Jayden, I know it sounds harsh, but it's a good thing you two broke up because I never liked that girl. "Mom..."
Chapter 188
Chapter 188
The days continued to pass, and the time for baby James's arrival was drawing near..
As a result, Jayden was busier than ever, juggling between pampering his beautiful wife, overseeing the final details of the hotel, and supervising the changes in their house. He wanted to add some special touches to surprise Deborah and make life more comfortable for their new family.
That morning, he arrived at the mansion to check out how all the interior renovations had turned out.
"Good morning. Jayden' Samantha greeted him as she supervised the unloading of some new plants she had ordered.
Good morning, Mom. What's all this? I thought we were finished,"" he said, noticing the new plants, wood, and some grass."
It is finished. This is just a little detail I wanted to add for my precious daughter, she said excitedly. "I want to create a space in the garden where she can relax with my grandson," she explained, showing him a sketch she had made.
"I know Debbie will love your gift, Mom.
Thank you, son, but I thought you were heading straight to the construction site with your father since your move is tomorrow,"" she said, concerned."
And that's where I'm headed. I just wanted to drop off this item I bought for James' room, Jayden said, showing her a box containing a wooden rocking horse.
Oh, son, it's beautiful, his mother exclaimed, admiring the picture on the box. "Let me guess, you're going to assemble it yourself?"
Yes, I want to do it here, with her.
In that case, boys, she called out.
Yes, ma'am, one of the workers responded, taking the box to bring it inside the house.
By the way, the only thing left in James' room is the curtains. The crib you picked out will be delivered in about an hour, his mother added. "I'll send you a photo once they've installed it." "Thanks, Mom."
By the way, is Deborah at home?
No, she was kidnapped by my father-in-law today. He said they were going to spend a special day together.
He beat me to it.
Yeah, well, I'm off now.
Wait, could you do me a favor, Jayden? she asked, pulling a pillbox out of her pocket. "Your dad forgot these. Can you give them to him?"
Ah, that's Dad for you. Sure, I'll give him his vitamins, he said, taking the pillbox and putting it in his pocket.
He then leaned in to kiss his mother on the cheek before heading back to his car to meet up with his father at the hotel.
Meanwhile, Deborah arrived at a five-story office building with a slightly worn facade.
Careful, dear, Nicholas said, helping her out of the vehicle.
Thanks, Dad.
This is the place, come on, he said excitedly, guiding her into the building.
As they opened the doors, a shower of confetti rained down on them.
Welcome! a chorus of voices shouted.
Deborah laughed, amazed by the reception. She grew emotional as she recognized many familiar faces among the workers. "Debbie," some of them came forward to hug her.
But.., how? she asked, astonished, as she received hugs from people she had known since she was a child.
As I told you, Debbie, with George's help, we managed to get the place back, Nicholas explained. "And to avoid leaving everyone unemployed, I told them the company would reopen, eventually working behind the scenes to avoid drawing attention." "That's right, and we knew that sooner or later, you'd return to the place you belong to lead us," said an older man.
Thank you so much.
Come on, let us give you a tour of the place, a woman said, taking her by the hand.
Deborah smiled and allowed herself to be led through the building, noticing that not much had changed, It was still the company she remembered from her childhood, including her grandfather's office, with everything he had used in his lifetime well-preserved. "It feels like time hasn't passed at all," Deborah said happily, touching the desk in the office. "Even the heart mark I carved is still here."
We tried to preserve everything that belonged to your grandfather and your mother, said an older woman who had once been her grandfather's secretary,
Chapter 189
Chapter 189
Thank you so much for this, ma'am. I thought the company was lost when Frederick declared himself CEO and started selling off the company's shares."
We tried to save as much as we could because we discovered his intentions to sell off the furniture to make a quick buck, another man explained. "Thank you, everyone," said Deborah:
You don't need to thank us. We loved your grandfather and mother very much. They always supported and treated us well.
I... I want to see this place return to what it was before, Deborah declared. That's why, with my father's support, we will bring the company back to its former glory."
Yes! everyone cheered, excited.
We'll get our clients back and defeat our rivals, Deborah continued, motivating her people. And now, we won't need to hide anymore. We're going to bring back the great Anderson Group."
Deborah's words thrilled both old and new employees. This was what they had been hoping for, and now that they no longer had to work in the shadows. They could attract more clients and offer their services to the general public without any restraints.
With renewed enthusiasm, everyone returned to their tasks. Some brought reports to the new boss, while others pampered her with snacks and juices.
Deborah had settled at her grandfather's desk, noticing some old documents with his handwriting, which filled her with nostalgia.
Tatiana, Deborah called her grandfather's secretary.
Yes, ma'am? the older woman replied, entering the office.
Could you connect me with Cooper Construction's office? We need to schedule a meeting with an architect to remodel the facade, she said.
Of course, anything else, ma'am?
Yes, is Mr. Kim still our lawyer?
He is, and his son works with us now as well.
Call them in because I want to make sure all the permits are in order for our comeback announcement. Also, call Francis in. I would like to see his report on the building's maintenance. "Right away, Tatiana said before leaving to carry out Deborah's requests.
"Wow... look at you, my dear. I could swear I'm looking at your mother, Nicholas said as he entered the office with a cold bottle of orange juice for her.
Aww... really, Dad? she said, taking the bottle and sipping from it."
Absolutely, you're the spitting image of her, except you cheated me and inherited your grandpa's eyes, he joked and Deborah laughed.
That's why Grandpa loved me so much, she said proudly, smiling when her father laughed as well.
Obviously.
The father and daughter joined forces to go over the preparations for the company's comeback.
By the way, where will the money come from to renovate the facade? Do you want me to invest, or should I transfer the amount from the company's current account balance?
No, leave that be. I have other plans for that money,' she replied. For now, these renovations will be funded by the money I got from selling the mansion."
Are you sure? Don't you want to save that for buying a house in the future?
Yes, besides I already have a place to live with my husband and son, she declared happily. "And if any building is going to bear the Anderson name, it should be this one, where my grandfather's legacy is." "Alright, Deborah. You have my support," he said, taking her hand.
Speaking of houses, Dad, would you like to move?
Well, I talked it over with Jayden, and he agreed.
Agreed to what?"
To offer you the house we're moving out of so you can live there, she said, taking his hand. "It's neither too big nor too small, and you know it's in a great location, close to the company and commercial areas." "I'd like that since it's a nice neighborhood." "Then I'll let Jayden know he has double the work for the move."
Oh, finally, my chance to tease my new son, Nicholas joked, making Deborah laugh.
Chapter 190
Chapter 190
The next morning, the couple took a break from work to focus on the move since the mansion was rody.
They also got some help with a few changes Deborah wanted to make in her existing house for Nicholas's comfort.
You know, now that I think about it, it was a good idea to have all the new things we bought sent straight to the mansion, so we don't have much to pack, Jayden said with a chuckle as he packed his clothes into a suitcase.
I told you, and yet you doubted me, she teased while packing her computer and office supplies into a cardboard box.
Yeah, I get it. I was wrong. Jayden admitted with a grin. By the way, love, what are you going to de
about your online job?"
I mean, yesterday when I picked you up, you seemed really happy and comfortable in that office."
I think I'll write my resignation letter this month because the visit yesterday reminded me of the feeling of excitement I used to feel from keeping an eye on the markets, making investments, and hearing about clients making profits, she said, smiling. "And I can't wait for the start of the month for the big stock market game and....
I can tell that's your real passion.
Well, as a child, I used to watch the frenzy of brokers buying and selling stocks, she said, recalling the days when she watched everyone running around, shouting offers.
If it makes you happy, then go for it, my love, he said, leaning in to kiss her.
Thanks, handsome. By the way, I've already packed my things, she said, showing that she had filled the cardboard box with her office supplies.
I'll take it to the car, Jayden said, picking up the box.
Ma'am, would you like to inspect things? Just then, a young man emerged from her old room. "We've arranged everything as you requested."
Yes, I'll take a look, Deborah said, walking carefully to check the room's decoration. "It looks great. I'm sure he'll love it," she said, pleased with how everything turned out. "Let's see," Jayden said as he entered the room. "He'll definitely love it."
Hey there, Nicholas greeted, walking into the house with two suitcases.
Dad, Deborah ran to greet and hug him. "You got here fast."
packed my things last night," Nicholas said.
Huh? Is this all your stuff? she asked, seeing only two suitcases.
Yes, is it not enough?
Your blood relation is undeniable, Jayden joked.
Why do you say that? Nicholas asked, noticing his daughter blushing and looking away.
Because when Deborah escaped from Roger, she only took one suitcase.
Really, Debbie? But as a woman, isn't it an unwritten rule to pack at least two or three suitcases full of clothes? Nicholas teased.
Let's just say those were complicated times, Dad...
Oh right, you told me about that, and I wanted to go punch him then.
"I know, it's in the p
Well, you got here at the right time, Nicholas. We've already packed our things, so let's help you get settled."""
It's just my clothes since I was staying in a hotel.
In that case, come see how your room turned out, Deborah said, taking his hand to lead him to the room. Did you prepare a surprise for me?" Nicholas asked, excited. "Mmhmm!"
this da
Nicholas smiled and let his daughter guide him.
When he entered the room, he saw a simple yet elegant decoration with a large TV mounted on the wall opposite the bed.
Oh, Debbie, you really know me, he said happily, seeing the big screen. "I'm going to enjoy watching sports here."
And look, Nicholas, Jayden added, showing him that the bed had a foldable table attached. "You can place your snacks here, and there's even a cooling system to keep your beer cold." "Son, you're spoiling this old man, giving him everything he loves," Nicholas sald with a grin, noticing that the table had the perfect space for food, the remote, and even his drink.
This is your home, so it should cater to your tastes. Plus, the cable guy came this morning and set up all the sports channels for you, Jayden said, turning on the TV to show him the menu. "Well, you know where I'll be on weekends," Nicholas said, making the couple laugh. "By the way, about what I asked?"
About what? Deborah asked.
Done, Jayden replied, walking to the adjoining room where there was an empty room, without curtains and with white walls. "It's a blank slate for you to decorate as you like." "Excellent, I'm going to have a lot of fun here."
What's this room for? Deborah asked..
For the days James stays with me, Nicholas said happily.
Aww, what a sweet gesture, Dad.
Yes, and you'll see-I'll make sure my grandson's room has everything he loves, Nicholas declared happily, imagining all the possibilities. "But now, let's go check out the mansion because if I don't like it, I won't let my daughter stay there." The couple laughed at his playful threat.
With that, they got into the car to head to the mansion, accompanied by the moving truck.
When they arrived at what would be their new home, they noticed they were already expected.
Welcome, the head butler greeted them.
Thank you, Jayden replied, turning to help his beloved out of the car. "My love, welcome home." "Wow..." Deborah was amazed to see that new flowers had been arranged to welcome them.
Do you like my little touch? Samantha asked.
Yes, very much.
Mom wanted to surprise you, and she also set up this Jayden said, pointing to the right where a cozy spot under a large tree had been arranged with a floating chair, a hammock, and even a large sofa with a wooden table. Now that's a relaxing spot," Nicholas commented.
"That's the idea-a place to enjoy the cool evenings, Samantha explained.
Thank you,"" Deborah said, hugging her."
Well, come on in and see the inside, Eric said excitedly, noticing Deborah's eagerness to carefully explore the house.
Nicholas, Samantha called out just as he was about to follow the young couple.
Let's talk, Eric said.
Nicholas nodded, letting the young couple explore while he accompanied his in-laws for a private conversation.
The trio went to the annex, which was now the new home for the older Cooper couple, to talk in private.
Once seated, Eric handed a folder to Nicholas.
Here's what you asked for.
Was it hard to get? Nicholas asked, opening the folder to read the documents inside.
Not at all. Fortunately, we have the right contacts for this situation, Samantha said.
"And we took advantage of the house renovations to create that special place in the old greenhouse, so it's out of sight, Eric added."
Excellent, then I'll just wait for this boy to finish his work so I can surprise her because I'm not a fan of the plan she has for them.