The Billionaire’s Regret -Alessa (by Bukolami) novel Chapter 27

**Shadows Beneath the Silent Moon**
*Rising Echoes by Aiden R. Vale*
**Chapter 27**

“Ugh. Come on, Aria!” Aiden’s voice echoed through the hallway as he glared at the empty staircase, his impatience palpable.

“I’m coming!” Aria’s cheerful voice rang back from somewhere up the stairs, her tone filled with youthful enthusiasm.

“It’s okay, don’t rush her. We don’t even have to go,” Alessa interjected, her voice softening as she sank deeper into the cushions of the couch, her body relaxing into the fabric. She mumbled the last part, almost to herself, but it hung in the air as a gentle suggestion.

Just the night before, Alessa had reluctantly agreed to the Harts’ weekend party hunt, primarily because the kids had been buzzing with excitement, their eager chatter filling the house. They were simply curious about what a party hunt entailed, a whimsical adventure that seemed to promise fun.

“We are going,” Aiden asserted with a firm tone, raising his brows as if to challenge any dissent. Alessa, in response, threw her hands up in mock surrender.

“Okay, fine,” she replied, rolling her eyes dramatically, her playful annoyance evident.

“Aria!” Aiden called out again, his voice tinged with a mix of impatience and affection.

“Take your time, baby!” Alessa called out, a teasing lilt in her voice, which earned her a fierce glare from Aiden.

After what felt like an eternity to Aiden, Aria finally made her entrance, descending the stairs in a lovely dress that Alessa had hurriedly picked out for her the previous night. The fabric swayed gently around her as she twirled, her giggle ringing like a bell.

“I’m ready!” she announced, her eyes sparkling as she turned to show off her new outfit.

“What’s in the bag?” Aiden inquired, his curiosity piqued by the small pouch she clutched tightly in her hand.

“Oh, I got candy for my friend!” she replied, her smile widening, illuminating her face with joy.

“Really? I want some,” Aiden said, stepping closer, his playful tone inviting mischief.

Alessa watched the exchange with a fond smile, choosing to let them savor their moment. She wasn’t quite ready to rush out the door, preferring to linger in the warmth of their home a little longer.

“We are ready!” Aria chirped, her excitement bubbling over as she turned to face their mother.

“Okay,” Alessa sighed, finally rising from the couch, the weight of her decision settling in.

“Do we need rules?” Aiden asked, his serious demeanor returning as they stood before her, awaiting her guidance. Alessa simply smiled, shrugging in response.

“No,” she replied, and with that, the two children bolted out of the house, their laughter trailing behind them like a melody.

Alessa opted to drive, deciding against the guards for this private gathering.

As they cruised along the winding roads, Alessa felt a sense of nostalgia wash over her. Soon, they arrived at the grand Harts’ estate, a sight that didn’t dazzle the children as much as one might expect. After all, their home back in Australia was just as sprawling and magnificent.

Pulling into the parking lot, Alessa stepped out with her kids, a guard dutifully escorting them towards the Hart’s expansive garden where the festivities awaited.

The moment they entered the garden, a wave of curious gazes fell upon them, the atmosphere charged with anticipation.

Every member of the Hart family was present, including distant cousins, their faces a mix of familiarity and intrigue. Alessa was well-acquainted with the tradition; this gathering was an annual affair.

Bryan, Lydia, Bryan’s sister, and his elder brother were all in attendance, along with their respective families. Tyler was there too, a figure who felt more like family than just a friend.

“Why is she here?” Lydia whispered to Bryan, her voice laced with disdain as her eyes fixated on Alessa. Bryan, however, was unable to tear his gaze away from her.

“Did you invite them?” Lydia pressed, her tone sharp.

“No,” Bryan replied, his eyes darting away from Alessa as if he had been caught in a trance.

“Who invited them?” Mrs. Hart’s voice rang out, her inquiry prompting a ripple of curiosity among the guests.

“I did,” Mr. Hart stated confidently, his smile warm as he approached them.

Surprise flickered across the faces of those present.

“Welcome,” he greeted them, extending his arms in a welcoming gesture.

Aria beamed at him, while Aiden’s eyes roamed the garden, absorbing the vibrant scene around him.

Alessa maintained her composure, offering polite greetings to Mr. Hart as he took the children’s tiny hands, guiding them toward the rest of the family. Alessa followed closely behind, her heart swelling with pride as she watched her children.

“This is Aria and Aiden,” Mr. Hart introduced, his voice booming with enthusiasm. “Aria, Aiden, meet the Harts.”

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