Chapter 13
Levi
The elevator dinged and Levi looked up. He took in a deep breath as the doors slid open and he stepped onto his mother's floor at the office. Daisy's assistant, Nia, looked up and smiled. Her cheeks instantly flushed as she adjusted her glasses.
"Good afternoon, Levi," Nia said, tucking her hair back.
"Good afternoon, Nia," Levi greeted her politely. "Is my mother in a meeting?"
"No," Nia shook her head. "Go right ahead."
"Thank you," Levi winked, and the girl blushed harder. Levi didn't like teasing the ladies like his brothers did, but once in a while, he had to admit, it was fun to see those rosy cheeks and batting eyelashes.
As Nia sat gawking in her chair, Levi turned toward Daisy's office and pushed the door open. Daisy looked up from her desk, a broad smile spreading across her face.
"Levi!" she exclaimed, standing up to greet him.
"Hi" Levi said, walking over to give her a hug.
"This is a surprise," Daisy patted his back as Levi kissed the top of her head.
"I thought I'd take you out to lunch today," he said.
Daisy's eyes sparkled with delight. "That sounds wonderful.
"Are you free?" Levi asked, looking at the papers on her desk.
"Yes, yes," Daisy nodded. "Let me just grab my things and let Nia know to move my afternoon meeting."
"Sure," Levi nodded. He waited as Daisy quickly gathered her purse and coat. He glanced around the office, noting the neat stacks of files and the framed family photos on her desk. It felt good to be there, surrounded by reminders of spending his childhood playing inside the office.
"Nia," Daisy picked up the phone. "Could you come in for a moment?"
Within seconds, Nia appeared at the doorway, still slightly flushed from her earlier interaction with Levi. "Yes, Mrs. Silvano?"
"Nia, I need you to handle a few things while I'm out," Daisy said, handing her a small stack of papers. "Could you please go through these documents and prepare the summary reports by the end of the day? Also, make sure to follow up with Mr. Thompson about the meeting schedule for next week."
"Of course, Mrs. Silvano," Nia replied, taking the papers with a determined nod.
"Thank you, Nia," Daisy smiled, then turned to Levi. "Ready?"
"Yeah," Levi replied, but his attention was caught by a small, elegant invitation card sitting on his mother's desk. He picked it up and scanned the text, his heart skipping a beat when he saw Evie's name on it.
"What's this?" he asked, holding up the card.
Daisy glanced at the invitation and then at Levi, her eyes filling with excitement. "Oh, yes!"
Leaning over, Daisy took the invitation and pulled out the card.
"Evie's getting married!" Daisy cheered.
Levi's head snapped up and his ears began to ring instantly. His heart lodged into his throat and he swore his vision blacked out for a split second.
"Wh-what?" He shook his head, trying to understand.
"She's engaged," Daisy explained with excitement. "This is an invite for her engagement party."
Levi stood there, frozen in shock, his mind racing.
Evie, engaged? It felt like a punch to the gut. He struggled to find his voice.
"To who?" he managed to ask.
Daisy's smile widened. "To Harry. I thought you knew. They've been dating for a while now."
"Who's Harry?" Levi felt a cold sweat break out on his forehead. He had no idea. How could he have been so out of touch? The tightness in his chest returned, more intense than ever.
"Sweetheart, are you okay?" Daisy asked with concern. "I thought you knew about Harry and Evie. Don't you guys talk?"
"I haven't seen her since Dad's birthday two years ago," Levi confessed. "We don't text that often. Just birthday wishes or random pictures we sent back and forth."
Daisy's excitement faltered as she noticed Levi's expression. "Oh, Levi, I'm so sorry. I thought you knew."
Levi shook his head slowly, still trying to process the news. "No, I didn't."
"Debbi says Harry is a wonderful guy," Daisy said gently. "Evie is very happy."
"I...." Levi was at a loss for words. He ran a hand through his hair as his eyes scanned over the names on the card.
Evelyn Summer. Harry Sinclair.
Levi's heart ached, and he couldn't understand why. He had been distant, caught up in his own life, but the thought of Evie marrying someone else was..... maddening.
Memories of her laughter flooded his mind. He was used to the tightness in his chest when he thought of her. But seeing her name written with someone else on the card was a pain he had never experienced before.
"Levi?" Daisy waited for him.
"When....." Levi cleared his throat. "When is this?"
"This weekend," Daisy replied. "Theo is flying to California to bring Liluy home for a few days. Sweetheart, I'm so sorry. I really thought you knew already."
"It's fine," Levi rubbed his forehead. "It's okay."
"Give her a call," Daisy suggested. "She must be so busy with everything. But I'm sure she will appreciate a friend reaching out."
Levi nodded, not trusting himself to speak.
"Are you still up for lunch?" Daisy asked.
"Yeah..." Levi said, setting the card down. "Yeah, I'm fine."
____________________
Daphne
As Marcus drove into the private airfield, Daphne felt a mixture of surprise and curiosity bubbling up inside her. She watched the scenery shift, the expanse of the airfield stretching out before them, dotted with sleek, small planes. Her heart raced with anticipation as Marcus pulled the car to a stop.
"Ma'am," Marcus gave a small nod as he opened the car door and stepped aside.
Daisy smiled and stepped out of the car, her eyes immediately landing on Theo standing near a small private plane.
He looked striking in his cream sweater and tan coat, his hair neatly styled to perfection. His presence exuded an effortless charm, amplified by the mischievous grin playing on his lips. The sight of him there, waiting for her, sent a thrill through Daphne, her curiosity intensifying with every step she took toward him.
The cool breeze tugged at her hair, and she quickly pushed it back. Theo's grin widened as she approached and Daphne couldn't help but smile back at him.
"I hope you're not afraid of heights," Theo said.
"No," Daphne shook her head. "Why?"
Theo held on to his secret for a bit longer as he turned to the flight attendant and asked her to have Daphne's bags carried onto the plane.
"You're fueled up, sir," one of the men at the airfield said, coming around the plane to look at Theo. "Whenever you're ready."
"Thank you, George," Theo shook the man's hand. "Please let flight control know we will be taking off in approximately twenty minutes."
"Yes, sir."
As the man headed off, Theo turned back to Daphne and held out his hand, "Ready?"
Daphne nodded. She placed her hand in his and let him guide on onto the plane. Stepping inside, she looked around at the luxury design of the seats and the fresh flower arrangements.
"This way," Theo tugged, leading her to the cockpit.
"Where's the pilot?" Daphne asked, looking around.
"You're looking at him," Theo laughed.
"You're flying?" Daphne asked in disbelief.
"Yes," Theo said. "And I need a co-pilot."
"You can't be serious," Daphne stared as Theo handed her the headset.
"I'll be doing most of the work," Theo replied. "I just need you to read the log as I go through the pre-flight checklist."
"I don't think this is a good idea," Daphne hesitated.
"I have countless flight hours, Daphne," Theo assured her. "I've done this a million times."
"I haven't," Daphne reminded him.
"I'll teach you," Theo said softly, his gaze steady and encouraging. "Trust me."
Daphne hesitated, her heart fluttering for completely different reasons than Theo and his stupid grin. She stared at all the controls, feeling overwhelmed but also a spark of excitement at the thought of the adventure. Taking a deep breath, she decided to trust him, nodding slowly as she put on the headset.
"Atta girl," Theo laughed as Daphne got into the pilot's seat. "Here's your log. Read me each item and I will tell you when to check it off."
Daphne took the clipboard and clicked the pen.
"Okay, first item," she began, her voice clear but a bit hesitant. "Fuel quantity."
"Check," Theo said.
"Fuel selector valves?" Daphne read, her voice shaking slightly.
"Set to both," Theo responded.
Daphne nodded. "Battery switch?"
"On," Theo confirmed with a reassuring smile.
"Avionics master switch?" Daphne asked, glancing at the controls.
"On," Theo replied, giving her an encouraging nod.
"Engine instruments?" Daphne continued, trying to keep her voice steady.
"Green," Theo said, his eyes twinkling with pride.
"Flaps?" Daphne read, her confidence growing.
"Up," Theo confirmed.
"Altimeter?" Daphne asked, feeling more at ease.
"Set," Theo said, smiling.
"Transponder?" Daphne inquired.
"Standby," Theo responded, looking pleased.
Daphne took a deep breath, her nerves now mingling with excitement. "Everything's set."
"Nice work," Theo gave her a broad smile. "Now let's get this bird ready for takeoff. Ready?"
Daphne's heart raced with a mix of exhilaration and nervousness. "Ready as I'll ever be."
"Perfect," Theo said, reaching out and touching the edge of her face to calm her. "Let's do this."
As Theo focused on the task at hand, his demeanor transformed into one of commanding precision. He spoke into the radio with a smooth, authoritative tone that radiated confidence.
"Tower, this is November 3-1-4, ready for departure," Theo said, his voice calm and clear. He adjusted the radio frequency and listened intently to the response.
"November 3-1-4, you are cleared for takeoff. Winds are calm. Have a good flight," came the reply from the tower.
Theo's hands moved with practiced ease, adjusting the controls as he prepared the plane. He shot Daphne a reassuring smile. "Ready to go?"
Daphne nodded, her eyes wide with admiration. The way Theo handled the controls was mesmerizing, and her initial fear seemed to dissipate as she watched him command the plane with such expertise.
Theo continued his communication with the tower, his voice steady and composed. "November 3-1-4, taking off now."
He guided the plane down the runway with effortless grace. As the aircraft began to accelerate, Theo's attention was razor-sharp, every movement deliberate and smooth.
Daphne's gaze remained fixed on Theo. His focus was captivating, making her forget her earlier apprehensions. She watched him adjust the throttle, set the flaps, and monitor the instruments with a calm precision.
As the plane lifted off the ground, Daphne felt a rush of exhilaration, the world outside blurring into a vibrant mosaic. Theo glanced at her with a gleaming smile. "How's that for a view?"
In awe, Daphne smiled wider. "It's amazing."
Theo chuckled softly, his gaze returning to the controls. "Glad you're enjoying it."
"Where are we going?" Daphne wondered.
"Not far," Theo said. "It's a short flight. I just figured you would enjoy this more then a long drive."
"Is this what you do on a random Wednesday afternoon?" Daphne laughed. "Just casually turn into a pilot?"
"I don't always get the chance to," Theo said. "But when the opportunity presents itself, I don't let it pass me."
"I still don't know where we're headed."
"A good friend of mine from college invited us for his son's birthday party," Theo answered. "All of our college friends will be there. Of course, James will bring Ava."
"I see," Daphne nodded. "Why did you make me pack my bags? Are we staying for the rest of the week?"
"We're leaving Friday night and flying to California to pick up my sister from college," Theo said.
"And I'm coming with you?" Daphne raised her brow.
"Yes," Theo laughed. "I promise she's nice."
"I thought you didn't want me to meet your family?"
"Change of plan," Theo said. "Our very close family friend is having her engagement party this weekend and Ava is her cousin."
"She's just everywhere in your life, isn't she?" Daphne rolled her eyes.
"Once upon a time, it used to be a good thing," Theo shook his head.
"Does your family know about me?" Daphne asked.
"I think my mother might have an idea that I'm 'seeing' someone," Theo said.
Daphne nodded slowly. She turned back to look at the clouds as the bright light filtered in through the window.
"Do you want something to drink?" Theo asked. "The flight attendant can prepare it for you."
"I'm okay," Daphne said and paused, "Theo, I didn't bring a dress to attend a party this weekend. I'll have to go back home beforehand."
"Pick something up in California," Theo shrugged.
"You'll pay?"
"Daphne, you have a wardrobe budget," Theo reminded her.
"You're so cheap!"
Theo burst into laughter, the sound rich and genuine.
"Am I allowed to take my phone out in the cockpit?" Daphne asked.
"Yes," Theo nodded. He watched as Daphne pulled out her phone and raised it to capture a photo of the clouds. A small grin began to spread across his face as he pulled out his own phone and hit record.
Without a warning, Theo tilted the aircraft at a slight angle.
"Theo!" Daphne gasped as she dropped her phone and sat back in her seat. She shut her eyes before hearing Theo laugh. When she peeked, she found him filming her.
"What are you doing?" Daphne grabbed his phone and stopped the recording.
"Post that," Theo said, maintaining the tilt for a few moments before leveling the plane out. "I haven't posted you in a while. Wouldn't want anyone thinking we broke up."
"This is a big jump from a soft launch," Daphne said, watching the video. "I don't like how I look here."
"You look fine."
"My arm looks fat," Daphne's nose scrunched up. She held the phone out and said, "Take another one."
"One moment," Theo reached over and switched on autopilot. Once everything was secured, he took the phone and held it up.
Daphne sat up and posed. She placed her hands over her headset and smiled brightly. Next, she raised her shoulder and gave a coy smile while staring out the plane windows. Theo held down the shutter button and let the burst capture every second.
"Any good ones?" Daphne asked when he lowered the phone.
"I'll look through them later," Theo said. "Do you want to go back and rest up before we land?"
"How much longer do we have?"
"About thirty more minutes," Theo said. "I told you it was a very short flight."
"I'm fine right here," Daphne sat back.
"You're not scared?"
"If this was unsafe, you wouldn't have me up here," Daphne said.
"Fair."
Daphne smiled and turned away. She stared out the window at all the clouds and the endless blue sky. When she looked down, she could make out the small houses and roads below.
"When did you learn how to fly?" She asked.
"Right after high school," Theo said.
"Who taught you?"
"My grandfather," Theo smiled. "His name is Richard. He's a huge military nerd. He taught me and my brothers how to hunt, ride horses, and build campfires. Everything."
"Do you still ride horses?"
"No," Theo shook his head. "That's more of my sister's thing. She has horses in Del Mare."
"What is she like?" Daphne asked. "I can't imagine having three older brothers."
"She's great," Theo said. "She's the baby of the family so she gets away with a lot."
"Does she have a boyfriend?"
Theo's brows furrowed, "No. Why?"
Daphne laughed, "I wanted to see how you would react."
"She's my little sister," Theo shook his head. "She's just a baby."
"Theo," Daphne rolled her eyes. "She's in college. And she is a very beautiful young woman. You and your brothers better sharpen all of your knives."
Theo huffed. He knew Daphne was teasing him but that didn't mean he liked thinking about Lily with boys. He knew it was inevitable. But he wasn't going to let his guard down.
"Oh, get that look off your face," Daphne clicked her tongue. "And focus on keeping us in the sky."
Theo turned away from Daphne and checked the screens in front of him, his eyes scanning through the various instruments. He made sure that everything was in order, his focus unwavering as he prepared for the landing.
For the last few minutes, they sat together in silence, the hum of the aircraft the only sound between them. Theo's gaze swept across the horizon, assessing their approach to the next airfield. With a steady hand, he adjusted the controls, guiding the plane smoothly toward the runway. As they neared the airfield, Daphne tightened her seatbelt, the click of the latch a reassuring sound, and took a deep breath, preparing herself for the descent.
Theo's movements were precise and controlled, his focus unwavering as he brought the plane in for a gentle landing. The aircraft touched down with a soft thud, and Theo smoothly guided it to a taxiing position.
He glanced at Daphne with a satisfied smile.
"All set," he said. "Welcome to Edenfield."
Daphne smiled as she took off her seatbelt and rose to her feet. Theo helped her out of the cockpit and down the steps of the plane. As they emerged out onto the airfield, he lifted her up and swung her down to the pavement.
"Welcome to Edenfield, Mr. Silvano," a tall man rushed up to their pair and held out his hand. "Hope you had a good flight."
"Hello, Morgen," Theo shook the man's hand. "Good to see you. How are you?"
"I'm doing very well, sir," the man smiled at Daphne.
"We'll be staying with the Harrisons," Theo announced. "Please have November ready for take-off Friday Morning."
"Absolutely," Morgen nodded. "Enjoy your stay."
"Thank you," Theo said, reaching back and taking Daphne's hand.
Together, they approached the waiting car and quickly climbed in as the driver finished unloading their bags into the trunk.
"Why did you name it November?" Daphne asked, staring at the plane as they drove off.
"I like the weather in November," Theo said, scrolling through his phone. "The November air gives me the same thrill I get when I'm flying."
"Hmm," Daphne nodded.
Theo continued to scroll through his phone as they drove farther and farther away from the airfield. Daphne watched the houses pass by and the colorful leaves on the road. She tugged her coat and sighed, stretching out her legs in her riding boots.
"Cold?" Theo asked.
"No," Daphne shook her head.
"We're almost there."
As the car drove up the hill and turned onto a private road, Daphne watched in awe. Theo put his phone away, his attention focused on the road as they approached their destination.
The grand colonial home came into view, nestled among lush greenery. The mansion stood proudly, exuding timeless elegance and a sense of history. Its stately façade featured symmetrical lines, whitewashed brick, and large, inviting windows with shutters. The front porch, adorned with classic columns, extended a warm welcome.
The front yard was lavishly manicured, with neatly trimmed lawns that stretched out like emerald carpets. Tall, mature trees framed the property, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. A grand fountain, positioned at the end of the driveway, bubbled serenely, adding a touch of sophistication and tranquility to the scene.
"Am I dreaming?" Daphne whispered.
Theo followed her eyes to the house before them. He was amazed by the look of admiration in Daphne's eyes. He had never seen her so speechless. As they stepped out of the car, Daphne spun around to look at everything around her.
"Theo," she gasped softly, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "This is exactly how I imagined my house would look when I was a little girl."
Theo's smile broadened, pleased to see her so enchanted, "It's a beautiful home. It's been in the Harrison family for many generations. I'm sure their son, Reed, will be inheriting it next."
"Do you think they will ever consider selling?" Daphne asked.
"Absolutely not," a man laughed.
Daphne turned to find a tall gentleman in a sweater and jeans coming down the steps of the front porch. He had an easy smile on his face as he held a small boy in his arms and walked over to where Daphne and Theo stood.
"We wouldn't dream of selling this place," the man said.
"What if I make you an offer you can't refuse," Theo asked.
"Get your greedy paws off my home, Silvano," the man warned playfully before turning to Daphne. "Hello. I'm Nate. I'm sure Theo has told you all about me."
"Hello," Daphne shook his hand. "Daphne."
"What a pleasure to finally meet the mystery girl," Nate looked at Theo. "I see why you were hiding her."
"Shut up," Theo said, stepping forward and picking up the little boy from Nate's arms. "Hello, sweet boy?"
The little boy who looked to be about four years old, smiled and wrapped his arms around Theo's neck.
"Teddy," he said, his sweet voice making Daphne smile.
"Happy birthday," Theo kissed the boy's head. "Did you miss me?"
The boy pulled back and nodded, "Yea."
"I want you to meet somebody," Theo walked over to Daphne. "Can you say hi to Daphne?"
"Hello," Daphne held out her hand as she peered at the little boy sweetly.
"This is Reed," Theo introduced, pushing back the boy's sandy hair. "My godson."
"Hello, Reed," Daphne stepped closer. "Happy birthday."
"Say thank you, sunshine," Theo taught the little boy.
"Thank you," Reed repeated shyly.
"Come inside you two," Nate motioned. "How was the trip?"
"Perfect day for flying," Theo replied as they began to follow him into the lavish home.
"Was it your first time flying with him, Daphne?" Nate asked.
"Yes," Daphne nodded.
"How did you like it?"
"I'm used to more excitement," Daphne shrugged to which Nate burst into laughter.
"That will do wonders for his ego," he said. "He needs to be brought down a notch."
"Very funny," Theo's hand found its way to Daphne's back as they entered a grand kitchen and everyone looked up.
"Silvano's here," Nate announced.
A cheer roared through the room. Daphne's eyes washed over the many faces before finding James and Ava sitting at the kitchen island. Ava smiled but it did not reach her eyes as always.
"Hello, hello," a beautiful woman with sandy hair like Reed stepped forward. "I'm Emma. Nate's wife. Welcome. So glad you could make it."
"Hi," Daphne smiled. "I'm Daphne."
"And I'm Theo," Theo teased. "So nice to meet you. Thank you for having us."
"Stop it," Emma warned playfully. "You're late. We almost cut the cake without you."
"I'm sorry," Theo held out his arm for a hug. "We were a bit.... Distracted."
"What do you mean?" Emma asked.
"Can I say why at a four year old's birthday party?" Theo arched his brow.
"I hate you," Emma rolled her eyes. "Come, Daphne. I'll introduce you to everyone."
Theo chuckled as Reed wiggled out of his arms and ran to his father. They followed Daphne and Emma farther into the family room as introductions began.
"Daphne, this is Allen and his wife Nadia," Emma pointed. "That's Sam and Sue. And this is -"
"James and Ava," Daphne finished.
"Yes," Emma laughed. "Right, you probably met them already."
"Yes," Daphne nodded.
"Everybody, this is Daphne," Emma turned to the room. "Theo's missing puzzle piece. His sugar bun, his love muffin, his -"
"Alright, alright," Theo stepped in, wrapping his arms around Daphne. "We get it."
"Say hi everybody," Emma clapped her hands.
"Hi, Daphne," everyone in the room waved.
"Hi," Daphne laughed.
"I swear they're not always like this," Theo said, kissing her cheek.
"Oh." Daphne paused, slightly surprised by the public display of affection. She quickly recovered, leaning into his embrace and playing coy as if the attention was making her a bit nervous. Her cheeks flushed with a gentle pink, and she looked around with a shy smile, soaking in the friendly atmosphere and the warmth of Theo's embrace.
"Come," Theo said, taking her hand and moving towards the sofa. Daphne followed, smiling politely as the others. She settled down beside Theo as Nadia leaned over and held out her hand.
"Nadia," she said.
"Daphne," Daphne shook her hand.
"How did you two meet?" Nadia asked, her smile friendly.
"Through a mutual friend," Daphne said. "What about you and Allen? Did you all go to college together?"
"Not all of us," Nadia said. "It was me, Allen, Theo, Emma, Nate, James, and Sam."
"Ava and I were the odd balls," Sue said, joining in on the conversation.
"You can add me to your list now," Daphne said.
"Mama, can we have cake now?" Reed, who had found his way back to Theo, asked.
"Of course, baby," Emma said. "Let's go wake Sara up from her nap."
Excited Reed ran to his mother and followed her out of the room. Daphne watched Theo as he pushed aside the little boy's toys and glanced toward Ava and James. She reached over and took his hand, pulling his attention back.
Across the room, Nate caught the small gesture. He waited to catch Daphne's attention before thanking her silently.
"Can I get you a drink, Daphne?" Nate asked, clearing his throat. "Come on up here if Theo is brave enough to let go of your name for a second."
Daphne patted Theo's hand and rose to her feet. She made her way over to the bar and waited for Nate.
"Thank you," Nate said quietly. "I'm sure you are aware of the whole situation with James and Ava and Theo."
"You don't have to thank me," Daphne said. "If Theo wasn't okay, I'm sure he wouldn't be here."
"That's what he said too," Nate smirked as he poured Daphne a drink. "I was hoping to get the two of them to talk while they're both here."
"Who?" Daphne frowned. "Ava and Theo?"
"No," Nate shook his head. "James and Theo."
"Oh," Daphne nodded.
"They should clear the air," Nate said. "Everyone moved on, right? Theo has you, James has Ava. Let's put everything to rest. What do you say?"
"It's not up to me," Daphne replied. "But you know Theo more. I'm sure he will listen to reason."
"Hope so," Nate nodded.
Just then Emma walked back into the room with Reed and a small baby. The little baby girl looked around from her mother's arms at all the people in the room, her big blue eyes still full of sleep.
"Cake, cake, cake!" Reed jumped up and down and clapped his hands.
"Alright, gather around everyone," Nate announced.
Theo rose from the sofa and made his way over to Daphne. He came to stand beside her as she leaned her head against his shoulder and watched Reed and Nate.
"Do you want me to hold her?" Daphne offered as Emma struggled to take out the birthday hats with baby Sara in her arms.
"Oh, would you?" Emma said with relief. "Thank you."
"Sure," Daphne stepped forward and took the baby. She gently bounced her in her arms, making sure to not frighten her.
"Hey, sweet girl," Theo leaned down and tapped Sara's nose. "Look how big you're getting."
"She's like a doll," Daphne said in amazement. "Look at her. Oh, my heart."
"She's beautiful," Theo smiled.
"You both like kids?" Sue asked, looking at the pair playing with the baby.
"Yeah," Theo said with a grin. He held out his finger and Sara quickly grabbed it.
"That's new," Ava spoke up from the counter. Everyone in the room paused and looked at her. "Since when do you like kids, Theo?"
"I've always liked kids," Theo said, without bothering to look at her. He wiggled his finger at Sara before smiling up at Daphne. "What do you say? Should we make one?"
"Stop," Daphne blushed and buried her face in the crook of his neck.
"Or we can just steal this one," Theo teased, taking Sara from Daphne's arms and holding her in his.
"What's wrong, Daphne?" Ava started again. "You don't look so thrilled by the idea of kids."
Theo's jaw clicked as he worked to keep his cool. He bounced Sara in his arms as everyone around the room shifted uncomfortably.
"Ava," James cleared his throat. "Reed is waiting to cut this cake."
Daphne held Ava's gaze for a few more seconds before the girl looked away and Nate let out a heavy sigh.
"Okay..." he said. "Let's cut the cake."
"Mama, where's the fire truck cake?" Reed asked, looking at the blue dinosaur cake before him.
"That one is for your party on Saturday, remember?" Emma said to the little boy. "You can cut that one when everyone else comes. Uncle Teddy bought you this one."
"A blue dinosaur?" Reed peeked again.
"That's the one you wanted, right?" Theo asked. "You drew that picture for me last time."
"Say thank you to Teddy," Nate told his son.
"Thank you, Teddy," Reed blew Theo a kiss.
Daphne melted against Theo as he grinned and everyone began to sing happy birthday. Reed blew out his four candles proudly and insisted on cutting the cake up himself. Everyone gathered around for pictures and presents and the room filled with innocent fun.
After lots of cake and candy, Theo sat with Reed on his chest and Daphne by his side. Dinner was being served and the guests were scattered all around the house. Daphne leaned over and wiped the edge of Theo's mouth.
"How much cake did you have?" She asked, wrinkling her nose.
"It was chocolate cake," Theo laughed. "My favorite."
"Reed, Uncle Teddy is four, just like you," Daphne shook her head. Reed giggled, sitting up on Theo and grabbing his face.
"I'm a big blue dinosaur!" The little boy roared. "And I'm gonna eat you!"
"Oh no!" Theo played along. "Don't eat me, giant blue dinosaur."
Reed dived in and began to bite Theo's fingers.
"Ow, kid," Theo complained. "That actually hurts."
"Reed, that's enough," Emma came over and lifted her son off of Theo. "You need to tell him to stop or he will get crazy."
Theo laughed watching the boy struggle.
"Do you two want to freshen up before dinner?" Emma asked. "I had your things brought up to the guest bedroom on the third floor."
"The balcony room?" Theo asked.
"Of course," Emma rolled her eyes. "Go wash up."
"Okay," Theo stirred up and rose to his feet. He held out his hand and Daphne took it quickly.
Together, they slowly walked to the foyer and then up the stairs. Daphne paused to admire all the paintings around the room until they arrived at the guest bedroom on the third floor.
"Oh," She paused by the door.
"What?" Theo looked over his shoulder.
"One bed," Daphne looked up at him. "I forgot."