Hayden's expression darkened. "What are you talking about? She is my daughter, Aiden's sister!" Worried that his family would not understand, he added, "She is Aiden's biological sister."
"Audrey and Aiden are twins," Shelly added.
Elliot was stunned for a few moments before shoving Aiden into Robert's arm and picking Audrey up from the couch.
Both Aiden and Robert seemed shocked by Elliot's sudden movement.
"I was wondering why she looks so familiar! So she's my granddaughter!" Elliot held Audrey up with a smile.
Avery tapped Eliot on the shoulder. "Honey, don't hold her up so high."
Hayden, too, felt that it was dangerous and said, "Dad, lower!"
Just then, Avery added, "I can't reach her if you hold her up so high."
Elliot immediately placed Audrey into Avery's arms.
Elliot gently patted Audrey's head. "Her head is so round! Like a big watermelon!"
"Yes! I can't believe it! Hayden actually has two children!" Avery exclaimed, both amazed and surprised. "It's truly a wonderful surprise! You don't need to give me any gifts for my birthday this year. Having two grandchildren is the best gift!"
Layla chimed in, "Dad, Mom, do you really have to be so biased? Is Aiden less important now that we have Audrey?"
At that moment, Aiden was being held by Robert, nibbling on his finger as he looked forlorn as his grandparents fawned over Audrey; it was evident that he was upset from the lack of attention.
"Mom, Audrey didn't suffer," Hayden spoke up for Shelly. "Shelly's mother has been taking care of her. She only got sick once, and that was the same time Aiden was sick."
"Oh... Since you and Shelly have talked everything through, what are your plans now? Are you planning to get married? Where will you two live after marriage?" Avery asked. "Shelly, what are your plans after marriage? Will you stay home to take care of the children or continue working?"
Shelly did not know how to respond because she and Hayden had not discussed these matters yet.
Hayden looked at Shelly and asked, "What do you think?"
"I... I'm open to anything!" Shelly's cheeks turned red.
"Shelly, don't be afraid. Just speak your mind," Avery encouraged. "Hayden isn't very good at guessing other people's thoughts. When you're with him, you have to be direct."
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