Chapter 500
Hayden stepped forward, clasped Federico’s hand tightly, and smiled. “Nice to meet you, Mr. Colli. But if you want to pursue Trinity, you’ll have tin line. I’m one of her admirers too.”
Federico looked at him in surprise, wincing slightly as his hand was nearly crushed.
It was obvious to everyone that Hayden was trying to lighten the explosive tension in the room.
“Mr. Colli, I’m also in love with Trinity! A thousand times more than you are! If you want to chase her, you’re behind me,” Yates chimed in, grabbing Federico’s other hand.
Now both of Federico’s hands felt like they were being tortured. Were all the people here this passionate about welcoming guests?
The scene was spinning out of control. Then the boys from VX stepped forward.
“Mr. Colli, don’t forget about us! We’re Trinity’s devoted fanboys too. You’ll have to take your place behind us.”
Federico was officially overwhelmed.
Even James, Benjamin, and Nolan joined in to show support. Then Simon raised his hand. “Count me in too! Trinity’s admirer right here.”
Though he used to pursue Caitlin, Simon now loved Molly. This was just his way of backing up Sebastian.
Standing nearby, Madison nudged her husband. “Not joining them?”
Felix chuckled and wrapped an arm around her. “With so many already, I think she’s covered.”
Jillian watched the whole thing unfold and felt a wave of envy. She couldn’t deny it–Caitlin really had that magnetic charm. Even as a woman, Jillian found herself completely in awe.
The scene looked like a battle of the gods. Every man standing there was handsome in his own right. Federico was starting to realize he may not have a
real chance.
Caitlin finally stepped in.
“Alright, everyone. Federico traveled a long way to be here, and he’s our guest. Let’s give him and the orchestra a warm welcome.”
“Welcome! Welcome!”
The men finally let go, each offering sincere greetings instead of crushing handshakes.
Federico shook out his aching hands, stunned by just how “warm” the welcome had been.
*
He now understood why Trinity had so many admirers. She was truly extraordinary. Maybe he’d never get the chance to win her heart, but being her friend wouldn’t be so bad.
He moved to speak to her again, but a group of children ran up, dragging Caitlin away.
“Mommy! Come on, we’ve got more surprises!”
Federico blinked. Trinity had kids? More than one?
Sebastian stepped beside him and said quietly, “Mr. Colli, as you can see, we’re engaged. And yes, those are our children.”
Federico looked stunned, but he nodded. “understand. Just promise me you’ll make her happy.”
“I will.”
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20:13 Tue, 19 Aug 0
Chapter 500
They shook hands, and the invisible battle finally came to a peaceful close.
The hall shifted once more. Mist curled through the air, turning the scene into a fairytale–like realm.
Soft light drifted across the room as a towering seven–layer cake was rolled out. The cake was adorned with cartoon figures–Sebastian, Caitlin and ther four kids. And one more: James.
Everyone who knew the family, good that today was also James’s birthday.
But tonight was mainly about celebrating Caitlin. James had chosen to be her quiet support.
The candlelight flickered, casting a gentle glow
everyone’s faces.
“The birthday cake is here!”
“Time to make a wish!”
Guests began singing the birthday song.
Sebastian gazed at Caitlin. “Caitlin, make a wish.”
“Mommy, make a wish!” the kids chimed in.
“Harrison, make one with me,” Caitlin said, pulling her brother close to share the moment.
She folded her hands, closed her eyes, and made a silent wish.
James did the same. His wish? That all of Caitlin’s dreams would come true.
When their eyes opened, they blew out the candles together.
A
Cheers rang out as the lights brightened again. Sebastian took Caitlin’s hand and helped her cut the cake.
The celebration continued in full swing. Laughter filled the air, kids munched happily on cake, and then Sebastian stepped forward again with a gift.
He opened a sleek black velvet box, revealing a dazzling blue diamond necklace. The piece had been custom–designed for Caitlin by the chief designer at Nolan’s jewelry company.
Sebastian carefully placed the necklace around her neck, the brilliant stones setting off her beauty like a queen in a fairytale.
“That necklace is stunning.”
“Mr. Vanderbilt is so romantic!”
“All the single guys here better take notes–this is how it’s done!” Madison teased with a laugh.
After placing the necklace on her, Sebastian leaned in to kiss her cheek. Then he asked with a smile, “My beautiful fairy, may I have this dance?”
Caitlin nodded, and the two took the stage hand–in–hand.
A waltz began to play.
The couple danced with effortless grace. Every movement was in sync, every glance full of affection,
They were mesmerizing.
“This feels like a wedding.”
“They’re perfect for each other. They should just get married already.”
20:13 Tue, 19 Aug
Chapter 500
“They will. It’s just a matter of time.”
“I bet their wedding will be even more extravagant than this!”
On stage, Sebastian and Caitlin only had eyes for each other. The music carried them as they spun and glided.
“About Federico,” Sebastian murmured as they danced. “When did you meet him?”
Even though the threat was over, he still felt a twinge of jealousy. The guy was just too talented and charming.
“I studied piano with him once,” Caitlin replied casually. “Technically, he was my teacher.”
“You saw him as a teacher. He saw you as something else,” Sebastian grumbled, giving her waist a gentle squeeze.
Caitlin giggled and leaned into him. “Still jealous? You should know I’ve always had a few admirers. Can’t handle a little competition?”
Sebastian sighed, half–playful, half–serious. “Sometimes I wish I could turn you into a gem and embed you right here in my chest… or hold you in my mouth, like a precious pearl.”
His words made her laugh out loud.
The two continued their dance, completely immersed in each other.
Meanwhile, at the edge of the room, in the shadowy corners of the hall, Zinnia received a message on her phone.
As her eyes scanned the screen, a ripple of panic spread across her face.
