Onlookers couldn't help but offer their congratulations to the Cedillo family as they passed by, smiling and nodding with a friendly, "Congrats!"
Cooper Irvin was playing host for his side of the family, noticing that those approaching his brother-in-law were influential figures from various industries. His nephew's christening was an extravagant affair, buzzing with excitement and luxury.
For a fleeting moment, Cooper thought back to the wedding he had missed. Had it been as grand and majestic as today's event, stirring the circles of high society? He wanted to ask Andre if he'd given his sister a wedding as splendid as this day.
But then, seeing Andre swamped with guests, exchanging pleasantries while inching towards the lounge, Cooper decided to let it go. Taking a canapé from a passing waiter, he went personally to deliver it to his sister, who was resting in the lounge. Cooper never did ask that question.
Soon after, he followed into the lounge himself. Andre was soothing the 'little tiger,' his wailing infant, when he saw Cooper. "Cooper, take over for a bit, will you? Let your sister grab a bite to eat. I need to head back out and greet the guests."
Holding the baby was a joy Cooper would never refuse. He took his nephew in his arms, and Andre stepped out.
"Anya, come to mom," Mrs. Calder called to her daughter. But Anya was glued to Leo's side.
Leo Cedillo, before coming of age, was known only by reputation. Today, most people were seeing him for the first time. He stood tall and handsome, with sharp features reminiscent of his uncle. Rumors of his impressive education made it likely he'd take over Cedillo Inc. one day.
Leo was the focus of many, but Anya was right there by his side, leaving some to wonder if she was the elusive Molly or if it was the girl in the green sundress trailing behind Hansen. To clear any confusion, Mrs. Calder called out for her daughter.
Realizing the mix-up, and not wanting Anya to deal with the crowd at the entrance, Leo began to withdraw, guiding Anya back to Mrs. Calder's side. "Ma'am, I've brought Anya to you. It's too chaotic by the door, and I'd feel more at ease if she stayed with you," he said.
Mrs. Calder took her daughter by the hand and sat her down beside her. Anya pouted, "Chad, I want to go with you. I can help you with the gifts."
Leo glanced at Mrs. Calder, then told Anya, "Be good. You haven't seen your aunt in a while. Keep her company." Although Anya was reluctant, she stayed obediently by her mother's side.
Coleen watched the young gentleman walk away, then turned to her daughter, "Anya, tell me about these past few months in Havenbrook. Have you settled in well?"
Anya nodded enthusiastically, "Mom, I love it here. My aunts and uncles are so nice to me. And Chad, he might not say much, but he always looks out for me. The last time someone was mean to me, Chad threatened them..." Anya innocently shared her adventures with the Cedillo family with her mother.
As Coleen listened, her eyes wandered back to the doorway, where young Leo was expertly navigating the sea of guests. Molly's identity was now beyond doubt. Jade was eager to find Chad, but before she could slip away, her father called out, "Molly, come help your old man. I want to introduce you to some old friends of mine."
"Oh, okay!"
Jade had been worried about Chad being alone, but then she noticed many guests were approaching him willingly. Chad might not have been a well-known tycoon, but he was a man many feared to cross—Havenbrook's youngest squadron leader commanded respect.
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