The night at Gabriel and Isla’s mansion was breathtaking, surpassing even Isla’s dreams. The estate glowed softly under the starlight, with sparkling fountains and beautifully lit paths leading through manicured gardens and tall palm trees. Isla and Gabriel rode together in a golf cart, enjoying the peaceful silence and the stunning views, including the large shimmering pool and the unexpected helipad on the rooftop. Gabriel’s careful planning and protectiveness made Isla feel deeply cared for, and she expressed contentment with their new home.
Inside, they were warmly welcomed by Magdalene, who announced that dinner was ready. The dining room was elegantly set, and the aroma of Gabriel’s thoughtful choice of seafood delighted Isla, showing how well he remembered her preferences. As they ate in comfortable silence, Gabriel’s focus was entirely on Isla’s happiness and well-being during their time together.
Meanwhile, tension simmered at the Wyndham family estate. John and Anna lay in bed, but Anna was restless and troubled, bringing up concerns about Gabriel and Delphine. She accused Gabriel of neglecting Delphine, who supposedly lost her baby after a fight with Sia, and urged John to intervene. John, however, dismissed her claims as manipulative lies and warned Anna to stay out of Gabriel’s affairs and marriage, speaking with unusual harshness.
John’s stern words shocked Anna, especially when he referred to Gabriel as “my son” in a way that confused her deeply. She sensed that John was hiding something significant about Gabriel, and despite his warnings, she resolved to uncover the truth behind his cryptic remarks. The chapter ends with Anna unsettled and determined to find out what John was concealing.
The night view from Gabriel and Isla’s home was nothing short of spectacular. It surpassed even Isla’s wildest dreams. The entire mansion radiated a soft, enchanting glow, as if it had been sculpted from the very essence of starlight itself.
At the front, the fountain sparkled brilliantly, resembling a cascade of shimmering diamonds, too exquisite to be real.
Seated side by side in the golf cart, Isla and Gabriel slowly cruised around the sprawling estate. True to his word, Gabriel was showing her every corner of the magnificent property.
Neither spoke; the only sound breaking the silence was the gentle whir of the electric motor. Isla rested her head lightly on Gabriel’s shoulder, her fingers curling around his waist. Each time the breeze shifted, her soft hair brushed tenderly against his neck.
Isla’s eyes wandered in awe, reflecting the warm golden lights that lined the winding paths. The vast greenery was her favorite sight—the endless, manicured lawns, the fragrant rose garden, and the tall rows of palm trees standing like silent sentinels, guiding the way toward the shimmering pool.
Speaking of the pool—it was enormous. Its glassy surface gleamed under the moonlight, looking like liquid silver. When Isla caught sight of it, a gentle smile curved her lips. “It’s perfect,” she whispered softly to herself.
What amused her the most, though, was the helipad perched on the rooftop. She had been utterly taken aback when Gabriel mentioned it earlier. “Why on earth do we need a helipad?” she had asked, laughing. His simple reply had been, “For emergencies.” She had laughed it off then, but deep inside, she was still trying to understand how meticulously Gabriel planned every detail.
Tonight, Isla was dressed comfortably in a warm brown sweater paired with soft lounge pants. The night air was chillier than usual, and Gabriel had insisted she bundle up. His protectiveness sometimes felt overwhelming, but it only made her heart swell with affection.
“Is there anything you don’t like, love?” Gabriel’s deep, husky voice finally broke the quiet.
Tilting her face upward to meet his gaze, Isla offered a small, contented smile. “Nothing,” she replied softly. “Everything feels just right. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”
He hummed in response, a low sound that seemed to vibrate with satisfaction. “Good. But if there’s ever anything you want changed, just say the word. Anything at all, Isla. This is your home now. It belongs to you, too.”
His words were warm and sincere, making her heart tighten in a sweet ache.
The golf cart came to a gentle stop in front of the grand entrance. Gabriel stepped out first, turning back immediately to offer his hand. Isla slipped her fingers into his palm, smiling as he pulled her down with a tender grace.
“Welcome back, Mr. and Mrs. Wyndham,” Magdalene greeted them with her usual cheerful elegance. She stood in the doorway, her pristine suit flawless, her voice soft and inviting. “Dinner is ready. I’m sure Mrs. Wyndham must be starving.”
Isla chuckled softly. “You’re right, Magdalene. I’m eager to see what the chef has prepared tonight.”
“Come,” Gabriel said, his hand resting lightly on the small of her back, his touch protective and reassuring.
They strolled through the grand foyer, and as they approached the dining room, Magdalene pushed open the doors for them. Isla paused, taking in the scene before her.
The dining table gleamed under a magnificent chandelier that hung like a crown of sparkling crystals. Silver platters were arranged neatly across the polished surface, each one holding an elegant dish. The rich, mouthwatering scent of garlic butter prawns filled the air.
For most women in Isla’s condition, such a strong aroma might have been overwhelming. But for her, it was pure bliss. She adored seafood—prawns, lobsters, anything from the ocean. Gabriel had remembered this detail about her.
Turning to him, a soft smile played on her lips. “You remembered my favorite?” she murmured.
“I remember everything about you,” he replied, and her heart nearly melted at the sincerity in his voice.
Isla took her seat as Gabriel pulled out her chair with gentle care. Without hesitation, she began serving herself, unable to hide the excitement shining in her eyes. Gabriel watched her quietly, pleased beyond words. The happiness on her face, the healthy glow returning to her cheeks—that was all he needed.
He had promised himself that this week off work would be different. He had cleared his schedule, canceled meetings, all to focus on taking care of her.
As they ate, a peaceful silence settled between them. The only sounds were the soft clinking of cutlery and the occasional glance they shared. Isla’s smile never faded.
And that was exactly what Gabriel wanted—to see her smile like this. He would do everything in his power to keep it that way.
Her breath caught, her chest rising and falling rapidly. “Your son?” she whispered, confusion and disbelief flooding her expression. “What does that even mean?”
But John had already turned away, slipping his glasses back on and scrolling through his tablet as if their conversation had never happened.
Anna sat frozen, staring at him, her mind racing. He couldn’t have meant that, right?
Still, a chill ran down her spine.
Why did it feel like there was more to this than he was letting on? John was hiding something from her, she was certain of it. And she promised herself she would find out what.
The chapter delicately captures the serene and tender moments shared between Gabriel and Isla, highlighting the depth of their connection and the comfort they find in each other’s presence. Their evening, filled with quiet admiration of their beautiful home and thoughtful gestures, reflects a growing intimacy and mutual care that strengthens their bond. Isla’s contentment and Gabriel’s unwavering devotion paint a picture of love blossoming amidst the grandeur, emphasizing themes of belonging and emotional sanctuary.
In contrast, the tension simmering within the Wyndham family adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, revealing undercurrents of secrecy and unresolved conflicts. John’s stern warning to Anna underscores the protective instincts and hidden truths that threaten to disrupt the family’s fragile equilibrium. This juxtaposition between the peaceful domesticity of Gabriel and Isla and the strained familial discord enriches the emotional landscape, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for the unfolding revelations.
The next chapter promises to delve deeper into the intricate web of family secrets and simmering tensions that have only just begun to surface. As Isla and Gabriel settle into their new life, their peaceful moments may soon be challenged by the undercurrents of mistrust and unresolved conflicts within the Wyndham family. The delicate balance between love and loyalty could be tested, especially as Anna’s suspicions grow and John’s cryptic warnings hint at hidden truths that could shake the foundation of their relationships.
Emotions are bound to run high as characters grapple with their own fears and desires. Isla’s serene happiness might face unexpected trials, while Gabriel’s past and present collide in ways that demand difficult choices. The looming questions about Gabriel’s true connections and Anna’s determination to uncover what’s been concealed add a layer of suspense, leaving readers eager to uncover the secrets that could redefine the bonds between them all. The next chapter will surely blend heartfelt moments with tension, setting the stage for revelations that could change everything.
Florence is a passionate reader who finds joy in long drives on rainy days. She’s also a fan of Italian makeup tutorials, blending beauty and elegance into her everyday life.

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