Chapter 1: The Duty Of The Heir (Book 3): Chapter 1

Rutland

Balloons float above my head, their vivid colors contrasting the azure sky. The garden in Jordan and Sasha’s home is transformed into a haven of celebration. Tables laden with mouthwatering delicacies, the tinkling sound of laughter, children chasing each other – everything is just as one would expect at Khaleb’s baptism. Yet the beauty of the day, the childlike wonder of a baby’s initiation into a larger community, makes everything feel fresh and extraordinary.

My eyes are drawn to little Khaleb, his face an epitome of innocence, cradled protectively in the arms of adoring family members. The joy around his new journey in life is infectious. I can’t help but let my own emotions soar with the uplifting mood of the party.

Suddenly, my gaze stumbles upon a familiar form. It’s Adam, the sharp cut of his jaw, those piercing eyes. A flood of memories and unsaid words fill my mind. I feel a jolt, the smooth fabric of my dress sticking to my back.

Without thinking, I pull Jordan aside to the entrance, needing the shield of distance from the party’s noise. ‘Why is Adam here?’ My voice sounds more shrill than intended.

Jordan smirks, a glint in his eye. ‘He moved back last year, sis. Rutland’s not that big, you know.’

I take a deep breath, trying to mask the flurry of emotions threatening to surface. ‘You should’ve told me.’

Jordan leans in, his playful tease evident. ‘I never thought I’d see the day where Aisling would be caught off guard. What happened between you two, anyway?”

I glance back at Adam, our eyes meeting for a brief second before I avert my gaze. “It’s ancient history,” I murmur.

The music’s tempo changes, a faster beat fills the air. Children rush towards the dance floor, their laughter filling the void of my conflicting feelings. For now, I must keep my emotions in check and celebrate Khaleb’s day.

The mysteries of the past can wait.

Blushing, I confess, ‘You know I had a bit of a crush on him in high school. He felt the same way about me. Jordan’s expression turned to shock, causing me to giggle.

‘We couldn’t date, but seeing him again has brought back so many memories.’

‘Are there any sparks flying?’ he asks mischievously.

I shake my head, denying any romantic interest. ‘He’s just a reminder of my past, almost like my first love. It’s natural to feel something after not seeing him for over a decade.’

Then I see Sasha approach with little Khaleb in her arms, my heart swells with happiness at the sight of the newest addition to our family. ‘Do you need any help with the baby or is he ready to be fed?’ I asks, always eager to lend a helping hand.

‘He just had a full bottle of milk,’ she replies, passing the baby over to me. ‘He likes to sleep on someone’s arm.’

I hold Khaleb carefully, feeling his warmth and softness against my skin. ‘Well then, Aunty Aisling is ready to be your bed this afternoon,’ I say, beaming at him as he drifts off to sleep in my embrace.