Family on Their Knees Heart Turned to Ice novel Chapter 1433

Bella felt a rush of triumphant adrenaline surge through her veins.

Hearing those words from the boy was incredibly satisfying.

But she was far too cunning to let a brief moment of victory cloud her judgment.

"Noah, she will always be your biological mother. Auntie Bella doesn't want to fight her for that title, and I certainly don't want to put you in a difficult position.

Auntie Bella loves you so much, which is why I only want what's best for you.

If I fight with her, you'll be caught in the middle. And as for your dad... I've made my peace with it. If I can't make someone love me, that's my own failing.

But let's not talk about such depressing things. You're just a kid, you shouldn't have to worry about adult problems.

Tomorrow is your big day. Our little Noah isn't the tiny three-year-old he used to be.

I still remember when you first came to live with me. You were only this tall."

Bella gestured with her hand, demonstrating how much he had grown since those early days.

Noah reached out and grabbed Bella's hand tightly. "Auntie Bella, thank you. You were the one who stayed by my side for those two years. I miss those days so much. You were always so good to me, better than anyone else.

Auntie Bella, are you absolutely sure you can't come tomorrow?"

"If I show up, it'll only cause a massive scene.

Be a good boy, Noah. Didn't Auntie Bella come to celebrate with you early?

I even brought your favorite strawberry ice cream cake, and a very special present."

With a flourish, Bella handed over a sleek, beautifully wrapped box containing the newest, top-of-the-line gaming console.

Noah already owned a similar device, but it was an outdated model.

Bella had specifically tracked down the latest release just to spoil him.

Noah's eyes lit up the second he saw the box.

Bella frowned. "But you're Noah's legitimate grandmother. It makes perfect sense for a grandmother to attend her grandson's birthday.

Besides, haven't we made our stance obvious? We're actively teaching Noah to get on Lillian's good side.

With that kind of supportive attitude, your presence would only help the situation, right?

Mom, tomorrow's event is critical. I obviously can't show my face, but I desperately need someone on the inside to report back to me.

You know how Colin and Brandon have been acting lately. Trying to pry any useful information out of those two is like pulling teeth."

Hearing her daughter's desperate plea shifted Sabrina's perspective. She hadn't planned on fighting for an invite, but the stakes had changed.

"If my precious girl needs me there, then Mom will move mountains to make it happen.

Don't worry. I will find a way to tag along tomorrow.

Martin Mercer still dances to my tune!"