The CEO's Unplanned Heir novel Chapter 1097

William lifted his hand, patting her shoulder with the wisdom of someone beyond his young years. "Mommy, since you and Uncle Leopold got back together, Arnold has been really down. He's part of the heartbreak club now, and he needs me more than ever. If I leave him, he won't make it. Let him get over losing you, then I'll be cool with getting to know Uncle Leopold."

His words lodged in Aurelia's throat like a dry turkey bone on Thanksgiving, impossible to swallow or spit out. She was at a loss for words.

"Alright, we'll wait a bit longer. Next year, at our wedding, we'll announce who you really are."

William bounded down the stairs, and out into the yard to join Skyler and the other kids in play.

From the bay window in the living room, Leopold stared out, lost in thought as he watched them.

Deep down, he struggled with the fact that his Liam had become Arnold's son, but he was back. That was better than losing him forever.

Jessica sauntered over. "Skyler is like the Pied Piper with those kids. Look at them having a blast. I was worried Nina and Mira would have a tough time adjusting, might even cry for Sheryl, but they're doing great, which is a load off my mind."

Leopold replied coolly, "Sheryl's all about shopping sprees and bingo nights. The nanny usually takes care of them at home, so it's not a big change for the girls."

Jessica's gaze settled on William. "William is a real rascal, naughtier than Kane, always cooking up schemes, just like Arnold."

Leopold raised an eyebrow slightly. "I think he takes after Aurelia more."

Smart as a whip, quirky, with a mind full of clever tricks.

Jessica clapped her son on the shoulder. "You're okay with William being around?"

Leopold darkened his eyes subtly, as if touched by the dusk. "Do you believe in reincarnation?"

Jessica let out a soft chuckle. "If reincarnation is real, it wouldn't be such a bad thing. It means we don't simply vanish after we die, right?"

Leopold's voice dropped lower. "If you didn't look at their faces, William and Kane could pass for twins."