Revenge is Best Served… After Reborn

Seven Years Later, at Aldridge Estate.

Sophie and Colby's life after marriage was as smooth as a gentle breeze. Their home became a favorite spot for family and friends to gather, chatting about the ups and downs of business and the little things that make family life special. Inside, the adults were busy planning their afternoon trip to the cemetery.

In the backyard, seven-year-old Fiona was on the swing, her giggles filling the air like a sweet melody. Behind her, eight-year-old Alec was giving the swing a gentle push.

"Hey Alex, Mom and Dad said we're visiting Mr. Aldridge today. Do you think he'd prefer me in a black dress or a red one?" Fiona's voice was as sweet as candy, still carrying that innocent charm only children have.

Alec, continuing to push the swing, replied, "He can't see what you're wearing, so stick with black. My mom says black is what we wear to the cemetery."

"But Mr. Aldridge once said he likes me in red!" Fiona insisted.

"Mr. Aldridge has passed on. People who have passed don't talk!" Alec retorted, a bit wiser than his years. He'd grown up quickly, thanks to his less-than-reliable parents.

For as long as Alec could remember, his parents were the type who'd sneak out for late-night BBQS while he snoozed, or swipe his snacks to munch on in secret. His mom loved her sleep-ins, and so did his dad. Every morning, Alec had to climb onto a stool to make his own breakfast. His dad called it "building independence," even though he couldn't cook to save his life.

When she was feeling affectionate, his mom would smother him with kisses. But when her mood shifted, she'd let him fend for himself. At just eight, Alec was already a little soldier, handling chores and even looking after his parents instead of the other way around. Compared to Fiona, Alec's home life was anything but picture-perfect.

"It's a secret between Mr. Aldridge and me! So there!" Fiona teased, sticking out her tongue.

"Fiona! Alex, come on, it's time to go," Sophie called, waving them over.

The two kids dashed from the swing set toward the grown-ups.

"Mommy!" Fiona squealed as she flew into Sophie's arms, and Sophie lifted her with ease, her smile as bright as the sun.

"Alex! Come to your mama!" Jenna called out, her voice overflowing with affection.

Alec watched with a sigh. When

would his mom be as soft and normal as Fiona's? Instead, Jenna,

was always loud and a bit rough around the edges, more like a

tomboy than a gentle mom.

He

often wondered what his dad saw in

her.

"Hey, kiddo! Your mom's waiting!" Adler teased, getting a playful smack from Jenna. "I've told you a million times, no swearing in front of the kids!"

"Sorry, love, didn't mean it that way!" Adler chuckled, rubbing his head where she'd swatted him.

Harold jingled his car keys as he headed to the driver's seat. Sandy showed up too, looking more mature and composed than seven years ago. Her once long hair was now neatly pinned up, and though still single, she had become a renowned lawyer worldwide.

"Sophie, Elodie and I will sit in the back," Sandy said, joining Elodie and Griffin in the car.noveldrama

Today, everyone had gathered. Julian and Booker were here too, although they'd gone ahead with Odie and James to the cemetery.