Zeke’s POV

My phone’s sudden chime pulled me from my thoughts. A message from one of the special operations members assigned to my children: "The kids are ready to be picked up."

Christopher hadn't sent the closing time, which was unsettling. I couldn't wait to find out why.

"It's time to go," I said, rising abruptly. "I'll see you soon."

"Oh, brother," Zane complained. "We thought we'd finally have you to ourselves for the night."

"Yes, Zeke. We thought we could hang out tonight," Fletcher agreed.

I understood their disappointment, but my children and Kamille needed me. "Sorry, guys. I'll make it up to you."

Without waiting for a reply, I left the office and headed to my car. With the driver and Andrew in the front, we drove away.

The children were waiting at school, their faces lighting up at my arrival. They clambered into the car, full of excitement.

"Daddy, can we get ice cream?" Tyris asked, her eyes wide.

"Of course," I replied, smiling.

"Driver, take us to the ice cream shop," I said, glancing in the rearview mirror.

The kids cheered. At the shop, they eagerly chose their flavors: Reon, plain and sweetened; Royer and Torin, chocolate; and Tyris, strawberry.

Watching them enjoy their ice cream, I felt a sense of peace. Their happiness was contagious.

On the drive home, the kids chattered about their day. Upon arrival, they raced into the house, calling for Kamille.

"Mummy! Mummy! Mummy!" they shouted.

Kamille, having likely heard the car, rushed out to greet them. She crouched down and hugged them tightly. "How was school, my loves?" she asked warmly.

"It was great!" they chorused. "Daddy got us ice cream!"

She smiled at me, then turned back to the kids. "And what did you say to Daddy?"

"Thank you, Daddy!" they beamed.

"Good," she said, standing. "Now hurry along. Nanny Dona has a bath and snacks ready."

The children excitedly ran inside, leaving Kamille and me alone. We took a short walk.

"How are you doing?" I asked, genuinely concerned.

She sighed. "Surviving. Just tired."

"I'm sorry. This has been hard on you," I said.

"It's a lot, but I have to reclaim my rights as a Manor and take my place in the company," she replied fiercely. Her calm exterior hid a determined spirit; she was ready to rebuild the Manor Company.

"Then you need to re-enter society," I said. "Your family knows you're alive. It's time to show yourself to the world."

She hesitated. "I don't know, Zeke. I've been 'dead' so long. What use would I be now?"

"There's no point in hiding," I insisted. "I'll organize a private dinner party with dignitaries and tight security. You'll know your guests."

"And the kids?" she worried. "Last time, I ended up in the hospital."

"Stop worrying about that. It wasn't your fault," I said, trying to calm her. "If anyone's to blame, it's Christopher and his irresponsibility. He should have provided security for your kids."

Fucking son of a bitch!

"I'll only be at ease knowing my kids are safe, Zeke," she retorted.

"I'll arrange for them to stay at one of my penthouses with Nanny Dona. They'll be safe," I replied.

She nodded. "Okay, I'll do it."

Excitement surged through me. "Great. I'll handle the preparations."

"Thank you, Zeke," she smiled faintly.

I walked her to the porch. "The dinner will be this weekend," I said. "Sooner the better."

"Okay," she nodded. "Thank you. I don't know what I'd have done without you."

"We're a team," I said. "Always."

She smiled and went inside. I got back in my car and messaged Mr. Rogers to begin preparations for a private dinner—inviting only elite reporters to publicize Kamille's return. Every news channel should have the story the next day.

"Andrew," I called.

"Yes, sir," he replied, looking through the rearview mirror.

"Ensure only A-list Elite Securities are on duty. Other security can handle the storehouses and kitchen staff," I instructed.

"Okay, sir."

On the way home, I ordered a luxurious dress for Kamille and booked a spa session and makeup appointment. Everything had to be perfect.

Arriving home, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Kamille was finally stepping back into the world, and it wasn't just for us. I was genuinely happy for her and would do anything to ensure her safety.

"Anything for you," I murmured. "Always."