The Billionaire’s Regret -Alessa (by Bukolami) novel Chapter 29

**Shadows Beneath the Silent Moon**

**Rising Echoes by Aiden R. Vale**

**Chapter 29**

“Get up,” she commanded, her tone sharp and unyielding as she looked at Alessa.

With a sluggishness that betrayed her fatigue, Alessa began to rise.

“Up,” the woman insisted, her voice rising slightly, a hint of authority lacing her words. Instantly, Alessa sprang to her feet, despite the sharp pangs of discomfort that shot through her body.

A soft whimper escaped her lips as her bare feet met the cold, unyielding ground. Her back throbbed painfully, a constant reminder of her struggles.

Tears began to pool in Alessa’s eyes, a tumult of emotions swirling within her.

‘Did I make the right choice?’ she pondered, her heart heavy with uncertainty.

“A quick tip that could serve you well if you wish to survive in this place,” the woman said, her gaze piercing as she stood directly in front of Alessa.

“Don’t ask questions. Just do what you’re told, and perhaps you’ll make it through,” she continued, her words dripping with a mix of disdain and practicality.

Alessa nodded, fear tightening her throat, and fought to stifle her tears, but they continued to cascade down her cheeks, betraying her resolve.

The woman scoffed, her eyes narrowing as they locked onto Alessa’s watery gaze.

“Tears?” she mocked, a cruel smile playing on her lips.

“This is nothing compared to the tears you’ll shed in the future,” she taunted before turning on her heel and striding toward the door.

“Welcome to hell,” she added, her voice echoing ominously in the dim light.

The sharp clang of the bell jolted Alessa from her spiraling thoughts. She exhaled heavily, the weight of her emotions momentarily lifting as she surveyed her surroundings. Their little family hunt had come to an end, and the air was thick with anticipation.

Running her fingers through her disheveled hair, she took a deep breath, steeling herself before moving toward the garden.

As she stepped outside, all eyes turned in her direction. She was the last to arrive, a feeling of self-consciousness washing over her as she noticed the curious stares of her family members.

Ignoring their scrutiny, she made her way to the table brimming with drinks, desperately seeking solace in the familiar routine. She poured herself a drink, her eyes drifting toward Mr. Hart, who was preparing to address the gathered crowd.

“Alright, now that everyone is here, let’s get started,” he announced, his voice booming with authority.

“Let’s begin with the adults this year,” he continued, motioning for the older family members to present their findings.

Bryan, Lydia, Tracy, Tyler, their uncles and aunts, along with Brook and his wife, all began to lay down the treasures they had unearthed during their hunt.

Brook and his wife proudly revealed the highest number of pieces, claiming victory with triumphant smiles.

“Now, it’s the kids’ turn,” Mr. Hart said, his eyes glinting with excitement.

Daxton, his sister Kendra, and Aiden all laid down their finds, but their collection paled in comparison to that of Brook and his wife.

“Is that all?” Mr. Hart inquired, a hint of disappointment in his tone as he surveyed the meager offerings from the children. They all nodded in response, their faces falling.

“Sorry kids, you lost this year,” he said, his voice tinged with sympathy.

“Oh, I found this!” Aria suddenly exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she produced a pearl necklace from her small purse.

A collective gasp echoed through the garden as everyone turned to gaze at the shimmering treasure.

“Why all the theatrics? It’s just some stones strung together,” Aiden remarked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Alessa, Tracy, and Bryan exchanged amused glances, unable to suppress their laughter at his comment.

Lydia shot Bryan a disapproving look, while he met her gaze with a defiant stare.

“You earned it, Aria; you should keep it,” Mr. Hart said, a warm smile spreading across his face.

“What? Why are you doing this?” Lydia shouted, her anger boiling over as she struggled to contain her frustration.

“Only those who are worthy get it,” Mrs. Hart replied, her expression stern and unyielding.

“Of course, your precious little heirs,” Lydia scoffed, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she stormed out of the garden. Bryan hesitated for a moment before following her, concern etched on his face.

“Why are you doing this, Mum? This isn’t right,” Brook said, his voice low and filled with disappointment.

Mrs. Hart shot him a fierce glare before her gaze softened as it landed on Aria and Aiden.

“What if they share the stones? Everyone could be happy,” Aiden suggested, his innocent optimism shining through. Tracy chuckled, clearly entertained by his idea.

“I love this kid,” she said, shaking her head in amusement.

“Aria, Aiden. Would you like to come inside with us? We can show you around,” Mrs. Hart offered, her tone shifting to one of warmth.

“Can Daxton and Kendra come too?” Aiden asked eagerly, his excitement palpable.

“Of course! Come on,” Mrs. Hart replied, beckoning for the children to join her.

The group of kids followed Mr. and Mrs. Hart out of the garden, their laughter ringing through the air.

“Still so dramatic after all these years,” Alessa remarked, shaking her head in disbelief. Brook shot her a dark look, his disdain for her evident.

“You show up with bastards and think you have everything under control?” he sneered, his voice laced with contempt.

Alessa couldn’t help but chuckle lightly, stepping closer to him with a smirk.

“Oh, I’m sorry. Is that the vibe I’m giving off? Deal with it; I was raised to be unapologetic!” she retorted, her confidence shining through the tension.