The Billionaire’s Regret -Alessa (by Bukolami) novel Chapter 34

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

**Chapter 34**

A WEEK LATER

The air in the city was electric with anticipation, as the second ball of the season approached in just two days. Whispers and conversations filled the streets, all revolving around one name: the Harts.

Everyone was buzzing with excitement, for the Harts were known for their extravagant flair, and it was no secret that they went above and beyond in everything they organized. Year after year, they were crowned the best hosts of the season, their events becoming the talk of the town, and this year promised to be no different.

Alessa had taken it upon herself to prepare her children’s outfits well in advance, determined that her little ones would be the best-dressed kids at the ball. She wanted them to shine, to be the envy of all the other children in attendance.

In the comfort of their living room, Alessa sat on the couch with her kids, Aiden and Aria, the glow of the television illuminating their faces. It was a rare moment of togetherness; usually, Alessa found herself buried in work, managing her companies from her study. But today, she had chosen to prioritize family time, cherishing these fleeting moments.

Suddenly, Aria let out an exasperated groan, breaking the comfortable silence. “Ugh, why does this keep showing up?” she complained as the program was interrupted by yet another breaking news segment about the upcoming ball.

It seemed like every hour on the hour, the same news flashed across the screen. The Harts, with their penchant for ostentation, had taken it upon themselves to make sure everyone knew just how lavish their event would be.

“The ball is all about the elite society, but the Harts are just going overboard. It’s like they want to remind everyone of their wealth every chance they get,” Aiden remarked, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

“Isn’t this the family who worships stones tied with a rope?” he added, a teasing grin spreading across his face. Alessa couldn’t help but burst into laughter, recalling the extravagant necklace Mrs. Hart had gifted to Aria.

“Aiden, that necklace was a gift to your sister, and it cost a small fortune,” Alessa corrected him, still chuckling.

“I know, but they were being so dramatic about it,” Aiden replied, rolling his eyes in exaggerated disbelief. Alessa giggled again, finding joy in their playful banter.

Her gaze shifted to Aria, who was staring intently at her mother, a look of curiosity etched on her face. Alessa sighed inwardly, anticipating the question that was sure to come.

“What happened between you and Bryan?” Aria asked, her eyes narrowing as she leaned closer. The three of them were nestled together on the couch, the atmosphere thick with unspoken tension.

“Nothing,” Alessa replied, her voice steady, though she felt a flicker of unease.

“Aiden, look. She has that look again,” Aria said, nudging her brother playfully. They both turned their gazes on Alessa, who couldn’t help but laugh at their synchronized expressions.

“Okay, okay,” Alessa relented, amusement dancing in her eyes.

“Come on, just answer the question. What happened between you two? It’s obvious you hate him, so just spill it! We might hate him with you!” Aiden pressed, his eagerness palpable.

“But he is my friend,” Aria protested, her brows knitting together as she shot Aiden a disapproving look.

“It’s us against the world, remember?” Aiden reminded her, and she nodded vigorously, her resolve strengthening.

“Yes, tell us, mummy. We’ll stand by you. We are on your side,” Aria chimed in, her voice filled with loyalty.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify