From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 406

Chapter 406 One Year Later

Morning light filtered through the sheer curtains, spilling onto the main bedroom’s large bed.

Finished!

Athena slowly opened her eyes. The mattress beneath her was soft and comfortable; it was no longer the cold, hard hospital bed from a year ago.

She moved slightly. The scar on her lower back that had nearly claimed her life was still there, occasionally aching dully on rainy days, reminding her of that harrowing ordeal.

But now, it was more like a medal, bearing witness to her rebirth.

The space beside her was already empty, retaining only Zaden’s lingering scent and warmth.

He always woke earlier than her, handling some urgent business matters before appearing punctually at the breakfast table without fail.

After washing up, Athena changed into comfortable loungewear.

In the mirror, her complexion was rosy. The tension and paleness that had once clouded her features had been replaced by composure and gentleness.

Walking down the spiral staircase, the aroma of breakfast was already wafting from the dining room.

“Mommy! Good morning!” A voice as clear as a bell rang out.

Teri jumped down from her dining chair and rushed over to hug her legs.

The little girl wore her hair in a pretty ponytail and a cute little dress, her face showing a bright smile free of any shadows.

That storm from a year ago and the revelation of her true origins, combined with Zaden and Athena’s redoubled love and care, along with professional counseling, had left no dark shadows in her heart.

Teri never imagined Athena was actually her real mother. From her initial delight to quickly accepting that Athena was her real mother, she’d also gained a doting grandfather and two uncles.

“Good morning, Teri.” Athena bent down, gently embracing her daughter with her left hand and planting a kiss on her smooth forehead.

The softest place in her heart was filled completely.

This was her daughter, her lost and found treasure, the child she’d searched for so long!

All the past seemed like a dream.

But this dream was real!

“Mommy, come look! Daddy and I made breakfast for you. The fried eggs are heart–shaped!” Teri excitedly pulled Athena’s hand toward the dining table.

Zaden sat quietly in his chair, a laptop open in front of him as he handled complex business affairs.

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DECIU

Chapter 406 One Year Later

In supporting his wife and child, Zaden’s work had become increasingly busy.

Seeing Athena approach, he closed his laptop. “You’re up? Let’s eat breakfast.”

Finished

Athena sat down at the dining table. She glanced at the breakfast before her. It was very abundant, with the fried eggs even decorated with the word “Love” drawn in ketchup.

This was Zaden and Teri’s love for her!

The corners of Athena’s mouth curved upward in a smile.

“You both did wonderfully. Teri, you’re amazing!” Athena praised sincerely, patting Teri’s head with her left hand.

Teri looked up at her with a shy yet happy smile.

Blood ties might be wonderful, but the affection born from being together day and night was even more unbreakable.

The atmosphere at the breakfast table was warm and harmonious. Zaden carefully cut Teri’s fried egg into small pieces and asked about her school activities for the day.

The way he looked at Athena always carried deep, undiluted love and tenderness.

After breakfast, the driver took Teri to school.

Zaden picked up Athena’s handbag and a light jacket from the entryway,

“You really don’t need me to drive you?” He confirmed for the umpteenth time, his brow furrowed with barely noticeable concern.

Even after a year, he still had lingering fears about Athena’s serious injury.

Athena shook her head with a smile, taking the bag and jacket. “Really, I don’t need it! The hospital is nearby, and Sorrel Sage is already waiting for me outside.”

“Don’t worry, Mr. Storm. I’m not a child anymore.”

She raised her hand, gently smoothing out his furrowed brow.

Zaden caught her hand, bringing it to his lips and kissing her fingertips. He sighed helplessly yet dotingly. “Alright, be careful on the road.”

After a pause, he added, “If you feel uncomfortable at all, call me immediately.

“Or should I pick you up this afternoon?”

Athena looked at Zaden fussing over her and couldn’t help but laugh.

“Okay.” Athena nodded, her heart warm.

This feeling of being cherished and protected in the palm of someone’s hand–she’d gradually grown accustomed to Zaden’s care and loved every bit of it.

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14:37 Wed, Dec 10 B.

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