The Heiress With Seven Secret Identies (Stella Shaw) novel Chapter 416

He understood the language of her music just as she understood his art. They were perfectly in sync; a single glance or a subtle smile was all it took for them to know exactly what the other was thinking.

After some time, Jasper finally set down his brush.

"Let me see!" Nicole said, leaning in.

A sweet smile spread across her face as she studied the canvas. At first glance, it was a painting of her playing among the flowers, but the way her long hair caught the light and billowed in the wind formed a familiar, warm silhouette. They were both bathed in sunlight.

She knew immediately it was Jasper. He was always there, watching over her.

"Jasper, I'm putting my life in your hands," she whispered. "You've helped me grow toward the light, and I'll give you a lifetime of happiness in return."

Jasper's handsome face broke into a radiant grin. He stood up, took her face in his hands, and kissed her gently.

"Go after whatever you want, Nicole. I'll always be right behind you."

In the middle of the conservatory, surrounded by blooms, they held each other tight.

*****

The Cross residence.

Lauren hummed a lazy tune to herself, listening to the playful back-and-forth between her husband and daughter.

"Lauren, do you feel anything yet?" Aaron asked, tiredly resting a hand on her baby bump.

"Nothing."

Aaron frowned. "What's his plan? Are you really going to end up having to go under the knife?"

"Who knows?" she replied.

Amelia walked over and joined in, gently stroking her mother's belly. "Maybe he's just realized how hard he'll have to work out here, so he's putting it off as long as possible."

"He's going to be the Chairman," Aaron countered. "What's he got to complain about?" He shook his head, looking at Amelia. "Honestly, honey, if you weren't so disinterested in the job, I'd never hand it over to him."

"You really mean that, Dad?" Amelia asked.

"Absolutely."

He couldn't bear the thought of his daughter being buried under the weight of the company. In his mind, Amelia should go to work only if she felt like it; otherwise, she deserved to live like a princess with more pocket money than she could ever spend.

Aaron straightened his clothes and put on a deadpan, serious face. "Attention, tenant! Your lease has expired. Vacate the premises immediately and start earning your keep. You've got rent and formula to pay for."

"Aaron, stop. You're scaring him," Lauren laughed.

"Fine, I'll be gentler."

"Good."

Amelia leaned in close to Lauren's stomach. "Listen up in there. If you don't come out now, the late fees are going to be astronomical. And if you cause any property damage on your way out, the fine doubles!"

"Amelia, that's not how you do it. Let me try," Lauren said. She took a deep breath. "Listen, sweetie. Don't think playing the silent type is going to get you out of your responsibilities. I know you're awake in there. Time to get up, stretch your legs, and get ready to meet your mom, dad, and big sister. We all love you very much!"

Aaron waited a beat. "Lauren, what's his problem? He didn't even answer you."

"Yeah, Mom," Amelia added. "It's pretty rude to ignore your elders like that."

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