“I’m surprised my teddy bear-loving grandson has found love. I’m so glad to see all my boys growing up,” she says with a small grin.
“Teddy bear?” I ask,
Iris’s grin widens as she nods. “Oh, yes. He carried that brown teddy bear everywhere and swore he’d never outgrow it.”
Oliver clears his throat. “She hasn’t met Teddy yet. It’s in a box at my house.”
I laugh. “Now I have to meet Teddy.”
Oliver groans softly, but Iris waves it off and turns her full attention back to me. Her tone shifts, becoming more serious. “Karley, I was wondering if you’d paint something for me?”
My heart expands at the request, excitement bubbling inside me. “I’d love to. What did you have in mind?”
“My garden is full of flowers,” she says. “I’d love for you to capture it.”
I hesitate for a moment at the fact she's asking me to paint something personal to her. Actually seeking out my art. I’m so touched that she really likes my work that much. “I’ve never painted an entire garden before.”
“You don’t have to,” she reassures me. “Just choose a part of it. Whatever inspires you.”
“I’d be happy to. Maybe I could come by early, before Sunday dinner one week?”
“That sounds wonderful,” Iris says, her smile turning playful again. “Thanks for having me tonight, and I hope my grandson is taking good care of you.”
I laugh softly, sneaking a glance at Oliver. “Oh, he is.”
Oliver’s hand tightens slightly on my waist, and when I meet his gaze, there’s a knowing glint in his eyes that sends a shiver down my spine.
He more than looks after me… in ways I never imagined.
When Amber and Wren arrive, they pause to take in the space, their expressions a mix of awe and admiration. A rush of warmth fills me as I watch them, my heart swelling with gratitude.
“Sorry, if you’ll excuse me,” I say to Iris with a smile. “I need to say hello to my family.”
“Of course, dear,” Iris replies, her smile as warm as ever. “I’ll see you later.”
“Thanks for coming,” I add, giving her arm a gentle squeeze before making my way toward them.
“Hi,” I say, hugging them.
Amber and Wren are already scanning the gallery, their eyes landing on my painting. Amber nudges Wren, and I can see the pride written across both their faces.
“Can you believe this is my painting?” I ask, gesturing toward the canvas displayed prominently under the lights. I’m surprised how comfortable I am about this now.
Amber turns to me, her eyes shining. “Of course we can. We’re just so glad Oliver has helped you see what we’ve seen all along.”
Wren nods, his smile full of warmth. “You’ve worked so hard for this, Karley. It’s about time the world sees how talented you are.”
Their words make my throat tighten, but I manage a smile. “Thank you.”
“Yeah, you deserve all this and more, sis,” Declan adds.
I shift my gaze to him and Armani. She stands tall beside him, her usual composed demeanor softened by a genuine smile.
“Hi,” I say to them, my grin widening as I hug them. It feels so good to have them here with me.
Before I can say anything more, Callum steps forward, camera in hand. “Let’s get a group photo,” he suggests, motioning for us to gather together.
We huddle close, arms around each other as Callum takes a photo.
