Chapter 103

This was Rebecca's first Christmas back in her hometown of Alaga City. As the helicopter descended, Dave and the estate manager, Cooper, were waiting with a group of people.

As they disembarked, Cooper quickly organized helpers to fetch their luggage, and the family excitedly entered the house. Cooper had instructed Grace to prepare hot chocolate, which was promptly served to warm them after their chilly journey. "Becky, are you tired? Would you like to go to your room to rest?" Debra asked, showing concern.

Patrick quickly agreed. "Yeah, Becky and the kids should rest in their rooms. It's been a long day in that helicopter; you must be worn out."

"And the rest of you should head to your rooms too. Take a break and stop staring at Becky. She's back for good; there will be plenty of time to catch up," Patrick added, turning to his sons. Rebecca chuckled at Patrick's remark, glancing easily at her three brothers.

Since arriving yesterday and finding everyone gathered, Rebecca had noticed her brothers and Paul frequently glancing at her. Their gazes lasted a few minutes, sometimes just seconds, before quickly turning away. The sensation of being watched made her nervous.

From yesterday until today, she felt unintentionally on edge. It was only when Patrick pointed it out that she burst into uncontrollable laughter. Her laughter was infectious, and soon everyone joined in.

Debra playfully scolded, "You troublemakers!"

"Don't mind them, Becky. They're just thrilled to see you. Give it a few days," Debra reassured her with a smile. Blushing slightly, Rebecca nodded.

"Let's go upstairs and leave them be," Debra suggested, taking Rebecca's hand and guiding her away. Rebecca cast a quick glance back at her brothers, particularly Adrian, before disappearing upstairs.

She had been in touch with Charlie for a while, so they were quite familiar. After Bryce transferred to work in Maeloria, she saw him occasionally. The exception was Adrian; due to work, he couldn't come to Maeloria. Besides their initial meeting at the hospital, they hadn't seen each other since, and she was curious about him.

Adrian was tall, probably around six feet, with handsome, well-defined features. He exuded a commanding presence, perhaps a demeanor acquired from his long stint as a lawyer. Adrian noticed her gaze and smiled gently.

Rebecca smiled back before regaining her composure and quickly following Debra upstairs. Once in her room, she sighed in relief, away from her brothers' gazes. Billy and Key were asleep, cradled by the nanny who had taken them to the nursery and settled them in their cribs.

Rebecca and Debra peeked in to check on the children, silently leaving once they were asleep. They left the nanny to care for them.

Debra followed Rebecca back to her room, where Rebecca stopped at the door. "Becky, rest well. We're all here at home; come find us if you need anything," Debra said tenderly.

"Okay. Thanks, Mom," Rebecca replied gratefully. Debra nodded, gently closing the door to ensure Rebecca wouldn't be disturbed. Alone in her room, Rebecca sighed in relief. Despite her family's warmth, the solitude was relaxing and comforting.

After unwinding, she felt tired and fatigued, as she hadn't napped today. Rebecca kicked off her shoes, slipped out of her coat, and climbed into bed. Despite having slept in her own bed only twice, it felt incredibly comfortable and reassuring, like home. Rebecca quickly fell asleep.

When she woke up, the sky outside was dark. Feeling groggy, she checked her phone and was surprised to see it was past ten at night.

Dinner… Rebecca hesitated, then got up. The second floor was quiet, but the living room lights were on, and her parents were in their casual clothes, watching TV. Upon hearing movement upstairs, Patrick and Debra turned towards the staircase, visibly happy to see Rebecca. Debra stood as Rebecca descended the stairs.

Debra approached, smiling. "You're awake? Are you hungry? We kept some food for you in the kitchen," Debra said, then called out to Grace, "Grace, please warm up Becky's dinner and bring it out for her." Grace looked at Rebecca happily and hastened to bring her dinner.

Grace had been with the Carter family for over thirty years, hired on a high salary after Debra married Patrick because he enjoyed her cooking. She had watched the three boys grow up, and the family's optimism and happiness were infectious. Working for them had made her more cheerful, and she enjoyed her life. So, without realizing it, she had grown closer to the family.

However, everything changed after Rebecca's accident. The Carter family's happiness had been shattered for years, and the atmosphere in the house had been dead. However, now it seemed fortune had smiled upon them as Rebecca had miraculously returned, bringing back the happiness and joy that once defined the Carter family. Grace genuinely shared in Patrick and Debra's joy.

In no time, Grace brought out the freshly warmed meal. Rebecca hadn't expected them to keep her food, despite the late hour. It seemed this was typical—no matter the time, her meal would always be saved for her. Rebecca thought this as she picked up her utensils and began to eat.

Just then, there was movement upstairs. Rebecca looked towards the staircase and saw Bryce. He appeared to have just woken up and was descending the stairs. Shortly after, Bryce joined them in the dining room. Grace also set out a meal for Bryce, and they dined together.

After Rebecca finished eating, she stood to clear her dishes. Grace insisted on taking them herself, urging Rebecca to wash her hands and rest.