Bella’s room was still a storm of anticipation. Helen raised an eyebrow, unconvinced, but happy for her as she helped Bella with the final adjustments.As Bella turned in front of the mirror, Helen sighed once more. “You just be careful, alright?”“Relax, dear sister. It’s just dinner.”“I’ve just got a weird feeling about this, that’s all Bella.”Bella’s phone chimed with a text, and excitement danced in her eyes as she read Andrew’s message.“Hey Bella, mind if I pick you up? I’d love to see you before our date.” The text read.Bella, grinned. “Oh my gosh, he’s coming here!”Helen’s concern deepened.“Isn’t that a bit much? What kind of guy insists on picking someone up for a first date, and to his house?” Helen stated.“He’s being sweet, that’s all. Don’t ruin this for me, Helen.” Bella responded, trying to brush off her sister’s worries.She accepted Andrew’s offer with enthusiasm. “Sure, that sounds great! Can’t wait to see you.” She typed and sent.“Great! I’ll be there in twent

The mansion, once filled with morning activity, settled into a calmness. Charles, now in the role of caretaker, led Norah to the cozy living room on her request after she had laid down for a while, where comfortable cushions and sofas decorated the place. Martha, with a knowing smile, disappeared into the kitchen to prepare the promised soothing tea.“You really didn’t have to cancel everything, Charles. I can manage,” Norah insisted, sinking into the soft cushions.Charles shook his head, sitting beside her. “Today, you’re my priority. No work, no stress. Just relaxation and taking care of you.”Martha returned with a tray, a delicate teapot, and two cups. “Here we go, Mrs. Norah. A blend of ginger and mint. It should help with the nausea.”Norah accepted the cup with gratitude, savoring the aroma. “Thank you, Martha. You’re too kind.”The housekeeper patted her hand affectionately. “It’s my pleasure, dear. Now, you take it easy. I’ll be around if you need anything.”As Martha left t

The sun settled below the horizon, and its light reflected from the window across Charles’ study as he dialed Jason’s number. The phone rang a few times before Jason’s voice cut through the line, “Hello?”“Hey, Jason, it’s Charles,” he greeted, a tinge of excitement in his voice.“Charles, What’s up?” Jason replied.Charles smiled, “Guess what? Tomorrow’s my birthday, and I’m throwing a dinner party. I’d love for you to be there, old friend. We can start catching up from there, it’s been too long.”Jason’s enthusiasm rang through the phone, “Absolutely, Charles! I’d be honored. Where’s it happening?”Charles called out the address to his residence, feeling a surge of joy. “Great! Looking forward to catching up tomorrow,” Jason said.Great! Can’t wait to see you, man,” Charles replied before they exchanged goodbyes, leaving Charles with a satisfied grin.After that, Charles stepped into the garden, the evening breeze carrying a hint of anticipation in the air. Norah was deep in convers

As the clock struck past 8 pm, the lively dinner at the Griffin mansion neared its end. Satisfied sighs sounded around the table as the last bites of dessert were enjoyed. Jason, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the evening, stood and addressed the entire family.“Charles, Norah, Martha, thank you for such a wonderful night. It’s been a true pleasure to share in your celebration,” Jason expressed, sincerity in his voice.Norah smiled warmly, “The pleasure was ours, Jason. Thank you for being a part of Charles’ special day.”Martha, standing beside Norah, nodded with a kind glint in her eyes. “It was lovely having you here, young man. Safe travels.”As the goodbyes were exchanged, Jason turned to Charles, saying, “Mind walking me out, old friend?”Charles gladly obliged, leading Jason through the elegant halls of the mansion and out into the night. Charles walked him to his car, the now quiet atmosphere of the compound enveloping them. The air outside was cool, and the moon hung l

Helen entered their small apartment after going to do some shopping, her eyes filled with a mixture of exhaustion and sadness. She dropped a handful of shopping bags on the kitchen counter, each one bearing the logo of the stores. She stood in the kitchen for some seconds, thinking where her sister might be this time.Frustrated with her sister’s attitude, Helen paced nervously in the kitchen, her eyes shifting between the clock and the door. It had been days since she last saw her sister. The once responsible and smart Bella had become someone else, disappearing for days to wherever God knows with her new man, Andrew. The mysterious billionaire seemed to have an endless supply of luxury.Helen couldn’t help but wonder about the source of his wealth. She strolled into her sister’s room, glancing around the room littered with new items. Helen’s worry deepened as she took in Bella’s disappearance and the sudden supply of luxury things she now possessed – designer clothes, sparkling jewe