Chapter 152: The Face of a Memory-1
Claim
Charles, sensing the weight of the moment, let out a soft, gentle chuckle, his eyes crinkling with
warmth. “Darling, don’t keep her all to yourself,” he said, his tone measured but affectionate. “Allow
me the honor of welcoming our future granddaughter-in-law.”
Eleanor gently let go of Maya, and Charles stepped forward, a warm, playful smile tugging at his
lips. He gave her a gentle, reassuring hug. “Ah… finally! The face behind the name. Welcome to the family, dear,” he said, his voice full of cheerful warmth.
Maya’s voice was shy but steady. “Hello, Mr. Blackwood… it’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”
Charles waved his hand dismissively, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “Oh, no-I retired a long time ago, dear, so you can reserve ‘Mr. Blackwood’ for my son Dominic-or for Damien. That sounds far
too formal.” He leaned in slightly, lowering his voice with a wink. “I’m just Grandpa now. Call me Gra
ndpa.”
He gently took Maya’s hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “When I heard he’d taken some time off, I thought the world might end. That boy has never taken a day off, even when he was sick. The company has always been his life. I’m glad someone finally capable has come along to soften this
brat.”
For a moment, the air was light and warm, filled with laughter, introductions, and the gentle hum of
familial connection.
They all settled into the living room, the soft clinking of porcelain cups resuming as tea was
poured and gentle conversation flowed. The warm, fragrant steam of jasmine filled the air,
mingling with the subtle crackle of the fireplace. Laughter bubbled now and then, punctuated by
quiet observations, as if the Blackwood home itself were embracing the newcomers with its
timeless grace.
Dahlia, mid-sip, suddenly straightened, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. “By the way, Maya,” she said, her voice curious and slightly eager, “have you heard from Jaime? Are they on their way here?”
Damien glanced at his mother with a small smile. “Monroe sent me a message over half an hour ago,” he said, voice calm but carrying a spark of excitement. “They’re on their way. Should be here
any minute now.”
No sooner had the words left his mouth than the faint roar of a vehicle reached the driveway, tires crunching against the gravel in a familiar rhythm.
Dahlia’s hands tightened slightly around her teacup, her eyes shining with anticipation. “Finally,” she
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Chapter 152 The Face of a Memory-1
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murmured under her breath, a mixture of excitement and nervousness in her tone.
Eleanor’s gaze softened at her daughter-in-law’s eagerness, a gentle, knowing smile curving her lips. “Patience, dear,” she said quietly. “Moments like this are best savored.”
Dominic, leaning slightly toward the window, chuckled softly. “Well, savoring can wait-sounds like they’ve arrived.” His eyes lit up with amusement as he straightened, already moving toward the
entryway.
Maya, sitting beside Damien, felt a wave of excitement and curiosity ripple through her. It had been a week since she’d last seen her brother, and although they had kept in touch through their regular video calls, she missed him more than she realized. Her heart skipped at the thought of finally seeing him in person-and a flicker of worry crept in too.
How would he react when he learned the truth about their mother’s identity? The weight of her legacy, the responsibility she carried, and the danger that lingered in their lives… could he
understand it all?
Jaime arrived shortly after, escorted by Monroe. He moved with a careful, slightly shy gait, but there was an easy confidence in how he carried himself. The moment his eyes landed on Maya,
they brightened immediately.
“May!” he called out, hurrying forward, arms outstretched.
Maya rose quickly, a smile spreading across her face, and met him halfway, wrapping him in a tight, eager embrace. “Jaime! How have you been? I hope you didn’t give Ms. Janice and Monroe a hard
time,” she teased lightly.
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Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.