Gabriel sat beside his daughter's hospital bed, a warm smile gracing his lips as he engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Jessie. "You're looking much better today, sweetheart," he remarked, his voice filled with genuine affection.Jessie returned his smile, her eyes brightening at his presence. "Thanks, Daddy," she replied, her voice soft but filled with warmth. "I'm feeling a lot stronger."Camella entered the room, a tender smile on her face as she approached them. "Hey, sweetheart," she greeted Jessie, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "How are you feeling today?"Jessie's smile widened at the sight of her mother. "I'm doing much better, Mom," she replied, her voice tinged with gratitude. "Daddy's been keeping me company."Camella's smile softened as she glanced at Gabriel, a hint of warmth in her eyes. "That's wonderful to hear," she said, her voice filled with genuine relief. "Thank you for being here for her, Gabriel."Gabriel nodded, his heart swelling with love for his
Gabriel's brows furrowed in disregard at her assumptions. "Aliyah, I appreciate your concern, but you don't understand. I can afford this," he insisted, his voice firm.Aliyah smirked and mocked, "Sure, but don't appreciate the concern. I know you want to spend my sister's money now after getting a hold of it. Camella is your cash cow and you want to act like you're capable. Ridiculous.”Gabriel's nonchalance grew as Aliyah continued to mock him, her words were not having any effect on him at that point. "Aliyah, you have no idea what you're talking about," he retorted, his tone tinged with annoyance. "I'm not here to spend Camella's money. I can provide for my daughter without relying on anyone else."Aliyah rolled her eyes, unconvinced by Gabriel's words. "Sure, keep telling yourself that," she muttered under her breath, her smirk still firmly in place.Ignoring her taunts, Gabriel focused on his daughter, helping her pick out a few outfits she liked. As they made their way through t
Aliyah's friends snickered and exchanged mocking glances as they watched Gabriel's ordeal unfold. "Look at him, probably can't even afford a decent meal, let alone expensive clothes," one of them jeered, casting a disdainful glance at Gabriel."Can you believe Aliyah's sister actually married that guy?" another chimed in, shaking her head in disbelief. "She must have been desperate."Aliyah clenched her fists, struggling to contain her anger at her friends' cruel remarks. Despite their jabs, she refused to stoop to their level, choosing instead to distance herself from their toxicity.As the trio continued to ridicule Gabriel from afar, Aliyah turned her attention back to him, her heart aching for the unfair treatment he was enduring. She vowed silently to stand by her sister and her family, regardless of what others may think or say.Aliyah's frustration mounted as she watched the salesgirl's audacity unfold before her eyes. Despite her strained relationship with Gabriel, her sense
Jessie's smile brightened at her father's assurance, her trust in him unwavering. "I trust you, Father," she affirmed, her voice filled with unwavering faith. Gabriel's grin widened as he leaned down to plant a gentle kiss on her forehead, his heart swelling with paternal pride. "Thank you, sweetheart," he murmured, his voice brimming with affection. But Jessie's innocence shone through as she added, "But if you can't get the dress, it's okay. We can go." Aliyah couldn't contain her frustration at Jessie's unwavering trust in her father. "Jessie, don't be fooled by his empty promises. He's only going to disappoint you," she interjected, her tone tinged with exasperation. Gabriel's resolve remained unshaken by Aliyah's skepticism. He locked eyes with his daughter, determination shining in his gaze. "Jessie, I promise you, I'll get you that dress. I saw how much it meant to you, and I won't let anyone take that happiness away from you," he vowed, his voice resolute. As Gabriel spoke
Gabriel's embarrassment was palpable as he fumbled for an explanation, his pride wounded by the humiliating turn of events. However, the atmosphere shifted when the store manager made a sudden appearance. His gaze lingered on Gabriel, his expression thoughtful as if a memory was sparked.*******************The previous day, the store manager had convened a meeting with the heads of various departments and management under Wellington Group. They had gathered in a meeting room, awaiting the purpose of the abrupt assembly.When Butler Moore entered the room, they rose respectfully, acknowledging his presence with warm greetings. “Please, everyone, take your seats,” he instructed, settling into his own chair. "I appreciate your prompt attendance despite the short notice for this meeting. I have an important announcement to make."He proceeded to reveal that Young Master Wellington, the estranged son of the Wellington family and heir to the business empire, had officially inherited the fa
As the old couple begrudgingly began to make their exit, they cast wary glances back at Gabriel, as if searching for any sign of trickery or manipulation. However, Gabriel simply stood tall, his expression calm and composed, unfazed by their scrutiny. It was clear that he had not resorted to any underhanded tactics to sway the manager in his favor."I'm truly sorry for the inconvenience, Master Gabriel," the manager apologized once more, bowing slightly in respect.Gabriel nodded in acknowledgment before turning his attention to the sales girl, who was now kneeling before him. "You don't need to kneel," he said gently. "Mistakes happen, and I appreciate your apology."With tears in her eyes, the salesgirl stood up, relieved by Gabriel's forgiveness. "Thank you, sir," she said earnestly, her voice trembling with emotion.Gabriel offered her a reassuring smile before turning to the manager. "Thank you for handling the situation," he said appreciatively.The manager smiled warmly and the
As they moved through the racks, Jessie tugged on her father's sleeve, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "Daddy," she began, her voice filled with sincerity, "I'm really proud of you. Thank you for doing all of this for me."Gabriel smiled down at his daughter, a warmth spreading through his chest. "Oh, sweetheart, it's nothing," he replied, his tone humble. "I'll always do whatever it takes to see you happy, you and your mother."Jessie beamed up at him, her gratitude evident. "Next time, can we bring Mommy with us?" she asked eagerly.Gabriel's smile faltered slightly, a shadow passing over his features. "Well, honey," he began carefully, "you know Mommy's very busy with work. I don't think she'd have time to join us."Jessie's brow furrowed in confusion. "But Mommy always says she wants to spend time with us," she protested.Gabriel's heart clenched at his daughter's innocent words. "I know, sweetheart," he murmured, his gaze drifting away. "But sometimes, grown-ups have other th
Gabriel appreciated Aliyah's offer, even though he understood her underlying motives. "Thank you, sister-in-law," he said graciously.Aliyah waved off his thanks with a smile. "Oh, don’t mention it. I'm sure those bags of clothes are heavy for you, so I don't mind helping you take some home."Gabriel smiled, declining her offer with equal grace. "Thank you, Aliyah. That would be really helpful, but it's not necessary, you know."Aliyah chuckled at his response, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Of course, but I'm always here to lend a hand," she replied, glancing at her friends again with a knowing look.Jessie chimed in, teasing her aunt playfully. "Auntie, are you sure you're not expecting anything in return for your kindness?"Aliyah laughed, impressed by her niece's perceptiveness. "Well, sweetie, I just like helping people out, regardless of what I get in return," she said with a grin."Don't worry, Aliyah. I will manage," Gabriel assured her, appreciating her offer but determi