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Mirabel's POV
"What is going on here?" Her voice rang out as the room fell silent.
Cherry let go of Charlie's hair, Emily released his leg, and Dennis stepped back looking guilty.
"It was Charlie," Cherry said quickly. "He insulted Emily and Dennis."
Mirabel's sharp gaze turned to her son. "Is that true, Charlie?"
Charlie frowned, his tone defensive. "No. They came to wish me happy birthday and I said thank you. Then I told them I wanted to go back to sleep, but Cherry jumped on me."
"Is that true, Dennis?" Mirabel asked.
Dennis nodded reluctantly. "Yes, everything both of them are saying is true."
Mirabel exhaled. "Alright. Charlie, apologize to everyone. Cherry, apologize to your brother."
Charlie muttered, "I'm sorry for insulting you."
Cherry lowered her head. "I'm sorry for hitting you."
"Good. Now that's settled." Mirabel softened, kneeling down to embrace the twins. "Happy birthday, you two."
The staff entered with a cake, candles flickering. Everyone gathered as the song began:
Happy birthday to you…
Happy birthday to you…
Happy birthday, dear Charlie and Cherry…
Happy birthday to you.
"Now blow out your candles and make a wish," Mirabel said warmly.
Cherry clasped her hands together. "I wish my dad would come to wish me happy birthday."
Charlie smirked faintly. "I wish Cherry's wish would come true—and that everyone would leave my room so I can sleep."
"On three," Cherry whispered. "One, two, three."
They blew out the candles together as applause filled the room. Mirabel handed the cake to the staff. "Cut it."
"Yes, ma'am," came the reply.
Mirabel's smile faltered slightly. "I'm sorry I couldn't throw a big party for you, and that your uncle couldn't come. We've both been so busy."
"It's okay," Cherry said softly.
"Yeah, it's fine," Charlie added, shrugging.
"Thank you, babies," Mirabel whispered, kissing their heads. "I'll be going now. They'll cut the cake with you, and I'll return soon to pick you up. Dress nicely."
"Yes, Mum," they answered together.
A little later, Cherry tugged her sister's sleeve. "Big sister, come taste this cake. It's really sweet."
Mirabel smiled and joined them briefly, before slipping away to make a phone call.
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An Hour and a Half Later
"Charlie, wake up. Mum will be here any minute," Cherry urged.
Charlie groaned. "I'm dressed already. If she comes, I'll just get off the bed."
"Fine," Cherry huffed. "But who do you think she's taking us to meet?"
"I don't know."
The door opened and Mirabel stepped in, disguised under a cap and mask. "Are you ready?"
"Yes," they replied.
"Alright then, let's go."
As they walked, Mirabel broke the silence. "I want us to have a family dinner tonight."
"Really?" Cherry's voice brimmed with excitement.
"Of course," Mirabel said with a small smile.
The butler opened the dining room door. "Children, the man you've been waiting to meet is here. Cherry, the father you've always asked about… it's him. Lucian."
Lucian rose from his chair.
Cherry gasped, pointing with wide eyes. "Really? He's my dad?"
"Yes, sweetheart."
"Wow, this day can't get any better!" Cherry squealed, running into Lucian's arms. He lifted her easily, his smile softening at her innocent joy.
"So you're my father? You're so handsome!" she declared.
Lucian chuckled, flustered. "Cherry, you can't just say things like that."
She looked back at Mirabel. "Oh, Mum!"
Meanwhile, Charlie sat down quietly, arms crossed. Mirabel knelt beside him. "Aren't you happy to see your father?"
"I'm happy, Mum. But I haven't really processed it yet. I mean… I've met him before."
Mirabel blinked. "You have?"
"Yeah. He helped me once. A woman accused me of stealing, and he paid her off so she'd stop."
"Oh… I see. Next time, tell me about these things."
"Alright, Mum."
Lucian carried Cherry over to the table, setting her down gently. His heart swelled with pride—finally holding his daughter in his arms. But his eyes lingered on Charlie. He wasn't sure if his son felt the same joy, or if the boy would ever truly accept him.
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