As evening approached, the heavy clouds that had loomed overhead since morning gradually dispersed, revealing glimpses of the fading daylight. The persistent rain throughout the day dwindled to a drizzle, its rhythmic patter against the windows subsiding.

  Yet, the remnants of the passing storm outside contrasted sharply with the jubilant mood inside the Shahi residence. Against the backdrop of the graying skies, a joyous gathering celebrating Seven’s verdict was underway.

  The spacious dining room had been transformed. Streamers in shades of gold and blue cascaded from the ceiling, intertwined with helium-filled balloons in matching hues.

  At the center, the long dining table groaned under a lavish spread, showcasing culinary delights from Persian and French cuisine. Aromatic kebabs mingled with delicate pastries, their tantalizing scents inviting everyone to indulge.

  The Fortiers, who had also attended Seven’s hearing, joined the Shahis, their laughter and animated chatter filling the space.

  Amidst the clinking of glasses and cutlery, Kasra, wearing a rueful expression, apologized to Seven. “Bro, I’m sorry I couldn’t make it to your hearing. It clashed with Lara’s discharge.”

  Seven’s gaze softened with understanding. “It’s not a problem, Kas. Kimi nailed it,” he reassured.

  Kasra nodded, grateful. “I also want to thank you for acting quickly and sending us to the hospital. If it weren’t for you, we would’ve lost the baby.”

  Seven inclined his chin. “I’m just glad Lara and the baby are okay,” he said warmly. Then, shifting to Lara, he offered, “Lara, let me know if you’d like me to develop a customized diet for you.”

  Before Lara could respond, Kasra jumped in, “That’d be awesome! Thanks, Bro!”

  “No need for thanks, Kas,” Seven hummed with a faint grin. “Lara’s raising my godchild after all.”

  Kasra’s smile widened. “Then, for my wedding, will you be my best man, and Sana, Lara’s maid of honor?”

  “When’s the ceremony?”

  “The last weekend of January. Any issues?” Kasra wondered, his anxiety apparent.

  “That’s two months away. Sana should be back to 100 percent by then, so it shouldn’t be a problem,” Seven estimated.

  Aaris interjected, “Kasra, does this mean Lara’s parents have accepted you?”

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  “Yes, Grandpa. It was a misunderstanding. Everything’s cleared up now,” Kasra affirmed.

  “Alright… Since you are the eldest in your generation and the heir of Dynamics Group, we must spare no expense for the ceremony,” Aaris murmured.

  Huma chimed in, her voice sincere, “Lara, marriage is a journey filled with joys and challenges, but always remember, you are not alone. We are here to support you every step of the way. Whatever requests or expectations you or your parents have, Kasra will ensure they are fulfilled. Otherwise, he’ll answer to us.”

  Moved by her future grandmother-in-law’s words, Lara felt a wave of warmth wash over her. “Thank you, Grandma… I also want to apologize for what happened on Thanksgiving,” Lara said softly, misty-eyed.

  Huma’s gaze shone with empathy. “Lara, my dear, there’s no need to apologize. Misunderstandings happen, but what’s important is how we handle them and move forward together.”

  Sana, sensing the opportunity to steer the conversation back to the upcoming nuptials, started firing away. “Lara, as your maid of honor, I have to ask: are you guys engaging a wedding planner? Time is tight—only two months to go!”

  Before Lara could answer, Kasra spoke up, “Lara was just discharged, Princess. She can’t be stressed. Do you have someone in mind?”

  With a twinkle in her eyes, she suggested, “Well, Seven’s cousin is a wedding planner. Want to give her a try?”

  The lovebirds glanced at each other with unsaid thoughts, but it was clear that Kasra was waiting for Lara’s response. After a few seconds, Lara answered with a crisp “Sure.”

  Sana’s excitement bubbled over. “Super! I’ll make the arrangements!”

  Unbeknownst to Sana, that exchange somehow brought her grandfather’s attention to the man beside her. He cleared his throat and turned to Seven. “Young man, what are your plans moving forward?”

  Seven, a portrait of calm, leaned back slightly. “Well, Grandpa Aaris, I don’t know how long it will take to nail Talon Cloche. But after that, I plan to start two companies: one in pharma-biotech, and the other in network security solutions.”

  Aaris nodded sagely, his expression mirroring a seasoned navigator sailing uncharted seas. “Although Grandpa knows you are exceptional, let us know if you need anything.”

  “Thank you, Grandpa.”

  Seizing this moment, Angus made a pitch. “Landry, I believe in you and everything you’re building. If you’re willing, I’d like to join your startups, not only as a business partner but also as your father. We’ve missed so much, and this feels like the perfect way to connect. There’s much to learn and relearn, not just about business but also about finding my place in your world. What do you say?”

  The idea of working with his father appealed to him. “Dad, as long as we’re careful about your condition, why not?”

  “Deal!” Angus exclaimed, mirth lighting his features.

  Overjoyed, Alain got ahead of himself. “Landry, can we host a recognition ceremony for you and Katherine?”

  Without hesitation, Seven kiboshed the proposal. “Grandpa, I’m heading back into Data Dynamics tomorrow. I don’t want to put the Fortier family at risk.”

  Leona’s heart warmed at her son’s care for his newfound family. “Landry, I don’t think it would endanger us. To Talon Cloche, you’re Keiran Kavanagh. If you’re uncomfortable, we don’t have to do it so soon.

  “Your grandfather will turn 75 in March. He hasn’t celebrated his birthday since you were taken away from us. It would be a wonderful occasion to commemorate your grandfather’s milestone, your dad’s recovery, your return, and Katherine’s adoption. What do you think?”

  To Seven, this was still months away. He saw no need to commit to anything just yet. After a beat, he deflected, “Mom, can we revisit this closer to the date?”

  Respecting his wishes, they agreed to leave it for now.

  Some battles are fought in hearing rooms, others at the dinner table—and not all victories make the next choice any easier.

  can do… but what he’s willing to risk.

  Tuesday, 8pm SGT (GMT+8).

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