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"Cherry… Cherry," he repeated softly. "I want to see them tomorrow—to let them know I'm their father."
Her chest tightened. "So… you're not going to take them away from me?" That fear had been eating her alive ever since he found out.
"Hell no, Mirabel." He brushed away her tears with his thumb, his touch gentle. "I could never do that to you. I just want to spend time with them. I want them to know who I am."
He pulled her into a hug, warm and firm. She melted against him, holding on for a moment before pulling back.
"You can't see them tomorrow," she said quickly. "I mean… you can't spend time with them tomorrow."
"Why?" His gaze sharpened on her, searching.
"Tomorrow is their sixth birthday party. I'm not even sure where it's happening yet—Mike is planning everything. But I'll text you once I find out."
He hummed in thought, then asked, "Your number?"
She handed him her phone. He typed it in and passed it back. "There. Now I'll call you."
"Okay."
"Mirabel, I—" Ding. The elevator jolted back to life.
"Oh—it's moving again," she said with relief.
He smirked. "I'll wait for your call."
"Sure."
When the doors slid open, they walked out together, blending back into the party crowd.
Mirabel spotted her brother near the entrance. She hurried over. "Brother, you look so handsome tonight."
"Thank you," Mike said briskly.
"Congratulations on the hotel opening."
"Thanks."
"Can I ask you something quick?"
He frowned. "Mirabel, I'm busy."
"It won't take long."
"Fine. Ask."
"About the twins' birthday party—where will it be held?"
Mike's eyes narrowed. "Why are you suddenly asking? Didn't you say you'd leave everything in my hands?"
"I know, but—"
"No. I can't tell you. It's a secret."
"But—"
"No buts. You'll know tomorrow. I have things to do." He walked off before she could press further.
She exhaled, frustrated, then spotted Flora across the room.
"Flora! You look so beautiful, with your hair down like that."
"Really? I was actually thinking of cutting it… but since you said I look beautiful, I'll keep it. And you look so cute tonight."
"Thanks," Mirabel smiled. Then, lowering her voice, "Do you know where Mike is hosting the twins' party?"
Flora hesitated, then nodded. "Yes."
Her eyes widened. "Where?"
"I… can't tell you."
"Why not?"
"It's a surprise."
Mirabel folded her arms. "A surprise for who exactly? Me, or the twins? Because I'm the one left in the dark."
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