Chapter 246

Iris's POV

I stood by the window, going through the final checklist for the twins' moonlight ceremony. I ran my fingers down the list, double-checking that everything was in order. My conversation with Rachel yesterday played in my mind—she'd promised to arrive on time despite her busy schedule.

"Still worrying about the details? We've checked everything at least three times." Sebastien's deep voice came from behind me as he descended the stairs.

I turned to face him, taking in his relaxed appearance. He'd been spending considerably more time at home lately, and I couldn't help but wonder about his work.

"You haven't been to the office much lately. Is everything okay?" The question slipped out before I could stop myself, genuine concern in my voice.

A slight smile played on his lips as he approached. "Everything's fine. I've delegated most of the work. They know not to bother me unless it's urgent." His casual tone couldn't completely mask the truth—he was deliberately making time for me and the children.

I nodded, not pushing further, though I noticed how his eyes softened when he glanced toward the nursery where Nathan and Emma were still asleep. This new, attentive Sebastien was still something I was getting used to.

The house was buzzing with quiet activity as we prepared for the guests. I stood near the entrance, smoothing down the simple but elegant dress I'd chosen for the occasion. Dina had positioned herself beside me, looking surprisingly formal in her tailored pantsuit—a stark contrast to her usual practical attire.

"The first car just pulled up," she informed me, her posture straight and professional.

Ian and Blake arrived together, followed by Frank and a few other guys from Sebastien's circle. I stepped forward with a smile.

"Thank you all for coming. The babies are inside," I said, accepting their congratulatory handshakes and the elegantly wrapped packages they handed over.

I couldn't help but notice how Blake's eyes immediately found Dina after handing me his gift. The transformation on his face was almost comical—his usual composed demeanor melting into a goofy smile.

"Dina. We meet again," he said, his voice dropping an octave lower than usual.

Dina merely responded with a curt "Hmm" and a brief nod, but I caught the slight flush on her cheeks as she busied herself with directing the guests toward the main room. I bit back a smile, amused by this unexpected development.

As Dina led the guests into the great hall, I lingered by the entrance with Sebastien, watching Blake's attempt to engage her in conversation.

"What's going on with those two?" Sebastien asked quietly.

I leaned closer to him. "Looks like Blake has a thing for Dina."

Ian and Frank seemed to have noticed as well. From where I stood, I could hear them teasing Blake.

"What's the matter with you? Aren't you going after her?" Ian prodded.

Blake hesitated for a moment before following Dina out of the room. Sebastien chuckled beside me. "The kid's got good taste," he murmured.

I smiled to myself, thinking that young love should be allowed to blossom on its own. Despite Dina's cool exterior, I'd seen her kindness and loyalty. Perhaps that's what attracted Blake—a genuine quality that was rare in our social circles.

More cars began to arrive, and Sebastien and I stood together to greet the distinguished representatives from various families. His hand found mine, fingers intertwining with a gentle squeeze.

"Tired?" he asked, his voice low enough that only I could hear.

I shook my head, squeezing his hand back. This simple gesture of support felt so natural now, though it had been absent for much of our marriage.

Guests streamed in, many exclaiming over the twins when they caught sight of them.

"They're absolutely beautiful! Look at their eyes—just like the two of you," one elderly woman commented, making my heart swell with unexpected pride.

I watched William Grey proudly showing off Nathan to his old friends. "You have to see my great-grandson," he was saying, his voice filled with joy that was impossible to miss. "He's got the Grey eyes, see?"

Not to be outdone, Jack stood nearby with Emma in his arms, entertaining another group of guests. The two grandfathers had developed a friendly rivalry over which baby resembled their side of the family more.

As I observed them, a wave of contentment washed over me. After everything we'd been through, seeing our children surrounded by family and well-wishers felt like a small miracle.

My moment of reflection was interrupted when I spotted Rachel walking up the path alone. Her smile was bright as always, but I immediately sensed something was off in her eyes.

"Rachel," I called, moving forward to greet her.

She handed me a beautifully wrapped package. "It took me forever to find something perfect for these two little munchkins," she said, her voice warm despite the shadow behind her smile.

"Thank you for coming," I replied, giving her a tight hug. I wanted to ask what was wrong, but this wasn't the time or place. "The twins will be thrilled to see their Aunt Rachel."

Back in the great hall, all the guests had taken their seats. I stood at the center with Sebastien by my side, surveying the room. Rachel sat in a corner, momentarily lost in thought. Dina and Blake were seated not far away, with Blake still trying to capture her attention.

I took a deep breath, feeling Sebastien's hand rest supportively on the small of my back as I began to speak.

"Thank you all for joining us today to celebrate our children's moonlight ceremony," I said, my voice slightly trembling with emotion. "These past months have been... challenging, but with your support and care, our family has reached this special day."

I raised my glass, feeling the weight of the moment and the journey that had brought us here. "To Nathan and Emma—may they grow up healthy and happy. And to all of you—may your families prosper and your homes be filled with joy."