Rosie Vander And More.
One year and six months later.
Serena and Nathaniel had been living in Velmon ever since. Sebastian and Alisa were already in kindergarten. Collin and Rochelle were months away from turning two years old.
Instead of working for VanderMed Technologies, Serena assisted Nathaniel’s company in research and development. Half of her time was spent at home, healing and attending to the children’s needs.
That day was her regular check-up following another MRI. Nathaniel had been strict about her monitoring after the surgery, so he accompanied her to the research institute.
“The scans remain clear,” Doctor Weiss said with a smile. “At this point, we can reduce the frequency of your follow-up checkups.”
Nathaniel let out a sigh of relief. “Thank the heavens.”
He turned to Serena and smiled. “Maybe it’s time to try for baby number five.”
Serena narrowed her eyes while the doctor laughed.
“You can always try, but just a reminder, pregnancy hormones may increase the risk of the tumor growing again,” the doctor said.
“We were only joking, Doctor Weiss,” Nathaniel replied with a faint chuckle. “Besides, with four children in the house, I’ve realized I already have enough competition for my wife’s attention.”
He glanced at Serena, his expression softening instantly.
“Not that I’m complaining,” he added quickly. “I love my children more than anything. But I’ll admit… having to share her time still makes me a little jealous.”
“Four children are already a beautiful family,” the doctor commented. “At some point, it’s not just about having more children, but about having enough time and energy to truly be present for them.”
“Well said, Doctor Weiss,” Serena smiled.
However, even after that discussion, Nathaniel was all over her the moment they returned to their villa.
“Love, we’d better hurry. Mom’s going to be home with the kids in tow,” he said. "I want to be inside you."
Serena raised a palm. “Nathan, if we’re going to keep doing this, you must have a vasectomy.”
Nathaniel frowned. “So instead of trusting my self-control, you’ve decided surgery is the safer option?”
Serena raised a brow. “The evidence against your self-control is currently on its way home.”
Nathaniel looked personally betrayed. “Four beautiful children, and suddenly my talents are being punished?”
Serena said nothing.
“Fine,” Nathaniel sighed, embracing his wife. “It’s also for the best. Pills are hormones, and they can still increase the risk of another tumor.”
“Precisely,” Serena said softly.
Nathaniel had a vasectomy the next day, and in between healing, they spent the following days preparing to return to Rexam.
Nathaniel had transformed the Stonewatch Rehabilitation Center in Greyhold into a larger and more advanced complex. One of its newly developed wings specializes in neurological and psychological treatment for soldiers suffering from combat trauma, traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, depression, and other stress-related conditions.
Its relaunch was scheduled for the following month, and Nathaniel needed to stay near Greyhold for at least another year to supervise the implementation of the new treatment programs.
On Friday, the entire family headed to the airport.
While waiting near the VIP lounge, Serena noticed a familiar face.
Christian Reeves.
He was standing near one of the airport stalls, selling insurance.
Serena frowned.
She was carrying Collin when she approached him.
“Christian,” she called.
She had not seen him since the pre-selection dinner at Cedar City, so she was surprised by how much weight he had lost.
He looked more mature now, like a young man who had learned to stand on his own.
When Christian saw her, he smiled. “Miss Vander—I mean, Mrs. Thorne. It’s lovely to see you.”
Serena smiled while adjusting Collin in her arms. The little boy was trying to wriggle free. “Christian, what are you doing here?”
“Oh, I’ve been on my own for a while now,” Christian replied calmly.
When Serena tilted her head, he explained, “My dad’s company had problems, and my mother’s side of the family took control. I didn’t want to stay in the business anymore. I didn’t think it was healthy.”
“I’m doing great selling insurance. My time is flexible, and I’m one of AML Life’s top producers,” he added confidently.



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