Dead at Heart (Ariel and Jayson) novel Chapter 821

Ariel was in a cheerful mood that night. Since she didn't feel like sleeping, she decided to just stay by Claire's side in her room.

Jayson wasn't against it. He stayed with Ariel and Claire as well.

He had already arranged their flight to Croinia for the next day. Since they were bringing Claire, Jayson chartered a private jet and arranged for a medical team to accompany them throughout the flight.

After they arrived safely in Croinia, the team would take another flight back to Nacsall. Jayson had made these arrangements in case any issues arose during the long journey.

Compared to Nacsall, Croinia had a much colder climate, so Jayson decided they would depart in the afternoon.

The flight would take about 13 hours. It would be around 3:00 pm when they arrived at their destination.

Introducing Claire to their family was now their top priority.

None of their elders were aware of Claire's existence yet. After some discussion, Jayson suggested inviting Katie and Leonard to Larkin Manor so they could share the good news with everyone at once.

It would be best if the elders of both the Larkin and Walker families were present when they introduced Claire.

Ariel agreed with his plan.

However, she felt she should call Katie herself to notify her, knowing Katie might decline the invitation otherwise. Ariel called her before boarding the plane to Croinia.

Katie wasn't sure why Ariel had asked her to visit Larkin Manor, but she trusted there was a reason. Thinking Ariel must have something important to share, she agreed to come.

When Ariel and Jayson landed in Croinia, Arthur was already waiting outside the airport with the car. He had thoughtfully brought an extended MPV—spacious and comfortable for the family.

Jayson carried Claire in his arms. Ariel had been holding the baby for most of the trip, and her arms were starting to ache.

Betty and Katie had been close friends for a long time—their husbands were once war comrades. Yet now, facing Katie, Betty couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt.

"Ari is my granddaughter, and she's incredibly precious to me. It breaks my heart to think about everything she's been through.

"Her illness especially… Many people develop chronic conditions because of the pain and stress they carry. And Ari… she's lost her chance to be a mother forever. If I don't stand up for her, who will?"

Her words were filled with anguish. She knew how deeply Ariel loved children.

Betty stiffened, sadness flickering in her eyes. She loved and cared for Ariel as well, but she couldn't predict what the future held for the young couple.

Evelyn, sitting quietly beside them, didn't comment.

Jayson had already made his intentions clear to her—he was determined to stay by Ariel's side for life, even if they could never have a child of their own.