As soon as the Morgan family's cars rolled through the iron gates of the Valley residence, the entire house fell into silence again.
Axel stood at the front steps with Evelyn beside him.
Oliver, holding to his mother's hand, peeked from behind her like a curious kitten preparing to meet strangers that somehow felt familiar.
Behind them, Alicia and Stella waited politely, though their expressions already carried unspoken excitement.
The car doors opened.
Finley stepped out first, tall and relaxed, offering a reassuring smile. Behind him came Theodor Morgan, dignified and sharp-eyed.
And last, supported by a cane but radiating undeniable authority, was Nicholas Morgan.
Oliver's eyes widened. He had seen Finley before. Many times. Finley had visited. Finley had carried him once. Finley had even taught him how to fold paper airplanes.
He immediately let go of his mother's hand, "Grandpa Finley..." he shouted and sprinted forward.
