Chapter 99 A Birthday Surprise And Bonds Confirmedn
Two days passed and everything seemed to be going on well. Although Amanda is still reluctant around the house, especially with Rowan's parents around, the tension has died down. The other staff had also returned, lifting Amanda's mood.
The children were also finding their ways around Rowan and the house. That afternoon, they were planning Amanda's surprise birthday, huddled together, trying to conceal their plans when Rowan walked in on them. Rowan raised an eyebrow, feigning ignorance.
"What's going on here?" he asked with a playful grin.
Adora, attempting to act casual, replied, "Oh, nothing. Just talking about, you know, stuff."
Rowan chuckled, "Stuff, huh? Seems like some secret stuff. Should I be worried?"
Tyler stepped forward, a mischievous glint in his eyes, "No worries, Dad. Just some top-secret mission planning. You'll find out soon enough."
Rowan raised an amused eyebrow, "Top-secret mission, eh? Well, I won't pry. Just remember, I'm good with surprises too."
“Not our kind of surprise,” Ryan said sarcastically.
“Oh! Really? Rowan exclaimed, smiling. “I will leave you to it then.”
“I think we should tell him though” Mason raised an opinion, whispering. “He could get things done for us as an adult, you know.”
“You didn't even wait for me to leave before you continued planning your secret stuff.” Rowan muttered before walking away.
“Wait..” Tyler said, stopping him from leaving.
“What is it? Are you reconsidering?” Rowan said jokingly but was surprised with their response.
“Do you mind planning our surprise with us?” Mason asked.
“Really?” Rowan exclaimed. “I would be honored.” He said, walking back to them. “Tell me, what are we planning?”
“Mom's birthday,” Mason answered.
“Oh! Wait..that should be in a few days…jeez..thanks for reminding me. I almost forgot.” Rowan stuttered.
“I hope this does not put me in a bad spot with you guys?” He asked, worried about their response.
“I don't think so.” Ryan said, validating his answer from his siblings.
“Good.” Rowan said, relieved. “So what is the plan?
The kids exchanged glances, sharing silent communication before Adora took the lead. "Okay, so here's the plan. We are considering three suggestions, we will go with any that can work.
“Let me hear it,” Rowan said, sitting next to Ryan on the couch.
“First, we don't know if we can gather in the backyard for a small family dinner. We can get that part covered, including your parents. We can talk to Grandma to make a special meal.” Adora explained.
Rowan nodded, impressed with the idea. “Nice, nice. What is the next option?”
Tyler continued, "we can prepare a little memory lane. We have gathered photos and mementos that represent different moments in Mom's life. We thought it would be a sentimental touch. Then we will present it to her on her birthday.”
Rowan smiled, touched by their thoughtful gesture. "That's a beautiful idea. And the third?”
Mason grinned, "This isn't that great because what we have in our savings isn't that much since we no longer have the medium to save anymore. We are thinking of a surprise gift.”
“We are still deciding on what it should be, but we want it to be something special and meaningful and of course what our money can buy.”
Rowan applauded their efforts, "I love it! You guys have really put a lot of thought into this.”
The kids were happy to hear Rowan commend their thoughts.
“How about we do this? We can do all you have planned. The family dinner, the memory video, your gifts..everything” Rowan said.
The children's faces lit up with excitement at Rowan's suggestion. “Are you serious?” Adora asked, excited.
“Of course.” Rowan responded. “And I am going to cover everything expenses so keep your money. You can think of a perfect gift you want to give her and I will get it for you.”
“That's awesome.” Tyler said, happy. “You are the best,” Mason added.
“Come here” Rowan said, extending his arms for a hug. The kids did not hesitate. They rushed in for a hug and Rowan embraced them all.
“I might want to add to the surprise though but that will be a surprise to you too” Rowan added when they seperated.
“No.. that's unfair. We just shared our plans with you.” Tyler protested. “You should not keep yours from us.”
“That's for just your mom but my surprise is for you all. It will no longer be a surprise once I tell you about it now.” Rowan explained.
“Fair enough. I can wait” Ryan said.
The door opened and their attention all focused on who opened the door. It was Mr. Xi. His expression showed his excitement. He held an envelope in his hand, containing the DNA results.
"Good news, everyone," Mr. Xi announced, his voice filled with genuine happiness. "The DNA results are in, and they confirm that I am indeed a Grandfather.”
He was expecting that Rowan and the kids would show their happiness but they all stood still, looking at him.
“Why are you all staring like that? Aren't you happy about the result?” Mr. Xi asked, disappointed.
“Because you are the only one that needs the DNA. I already told you that they are my kids. If I wasn't convinced, I would have told you.” Rowan responded.
“You didn't tell me when you knew Amanda wasn't pregnant. Why should I believe you now?” Mr. Xi responded. Although the question was rhetorical, Rowan still answered.
“Dad, I have said this thousands of times. That was my idea not hers. I didn't discover, I knew from the start and I got her into that.”
“I can't see the difference.” Mr. Xi replied. “But that is in the past now. I just needed to be sure these adorable kids are yours and now I know.”
“You do not need a DNA test to know that though,” Rowan said, chuckling.”
“Now that I look at them very well. I think they look like you. Especially that one,” he pointed to Tyler.
“What is your name kid?
“Tyler,” he answered. “Tyler! Nice name. He looks exactly like you when you were that age.”
“I see how the test result can suddenly make you see well.” Rowan mocked.
“Come on, do not mock your father. You now have your kids. Do not make them do the same to you” Mr. Xi responded.
“Will you do the honor of giving me a hug grandchildren?” Mr. Xi asked, extending his arms.
Rowan gestured to them to go ahead and they all went to him and gave him a hug.
Mr. Xi, beaming with joy, hugged each of them in turn. "I'm so happy to have you as part of our family. I am thrilled to be your grandfather and I can't wait to spoil you all.”
The children exchanged glances excitedly. “So where do I start from? Should I get you a car each? Maybe I should rewrite my will.”
“Dad” Rowan exclaimed. “Don't do that,” he protested. “They are kids and need to be trained well, not spoiled brats. I love the car idea though “ he grinned.
“Then we will get the cars,” Mr. Xi answered excitedly. He hugged them again.