Jenny had already targeted Stacey and Hayden, but the Carters were prepared. A gaggle of children perpetually shadowed Stacey's, thwarting Jenny's plans. Meanwhile, Adrian’s investigation into Jenny and Dorothy yielded substantial evidence, though conclusive proof of Dorothy’s plot against Edwin’s children was lost to time. After verifying the findings, Adrian went home.
He presented the evidence to Stacey and Hayden. Hayden’s frown betrayed his uncertainty about Jenny and Stacey’s relationship. Adrian explained. Hayden’s eyes darkened. He reviewed the evidence, then returned it to Stacey. "Do you want to put her in jail?"
Child mutilation in Menterra carried a minimum 130-year sentence—a life sentence, effectively. Among Adrian’s evidence were photos of Jenny’s murdered ex-husband's daughter—a beautiful child. Stacey didn't hesitate. "Yes."
"I'll give the evidence to Jeffrey and get him the best lawyer," Adrian promised. "Jenny’s going to jail."
Hayden looked at Adrian. "I have connections in Menterra. Need help?"
Adrian chuckled. "No need. It's a small case. Your talents are better used elsewhere."
They all laughed. It was clearly overkill to enlist Hayden’s powerful influence. Adrian took back his hard-won evidence.
Days later, the year-end ceremony loomed. Stacey, Charlie, and Lynn were attending. Hayden had a special gold-embossed invitation, a stark contrast to Stacey’s. Stacey admired it; Hayden amusedly let her examine it.
The ceremony approached. Stacey wouldn't leave her children behind. Charlie had already made arrangements with the organizers. Hayden, needing no help, had secured Jeremy’s place. Stacey trusted him implicitly, recalling that gold invitation.
Lillian and Kevin were thrilled to go, excited to meet Charlie. Jeremy, equally enthusiastic, wanted to see Becky's old award stage. Patrick had pre-arranged helicopter transport.
Lillian and Kevin, despite previous flights, were captivated by the helicopter. Their eyes gleamed with excitement. Stacey lifted Lillian, Hayden Kevin. Three-year-old Jeremy needed help. Hayden scooped him up.
Menterra's strict flight regulations required prior authorization, even for private aircraft. The children, rarely helicopter passengers, were mesmerized, touching everything.
Gwen and Marie followed, carrying Lillian and Kevin’s small belongings. Jeremy had a backpack; the rest was with Hayden. Stacey buckled Lillian and Kevin. She turned to find Jeremy already seated, his seatbelt fastened by Hayden.
"My house… has one, too," Jeremy said, surprisingly.
Stacey and Hayden stared, then burst into laughter.
"Can I see it?" Stacey asked Jeremy, smiling.
His eyes lit up. He nodded vigorously, adding a delighted, "Hmm!"
Hayden, chuckling, turned to Lillian and Kevin. "Want to ride my helicopter next time?"
Lillian and Kevin's eyes widened. Kevin asked, "Is it different from ours?"
Hayden smiled and nodded. "Some differences."
"I want to see it!" Lillian squealed.
"Me too!" Kevin echoed.
"How about you and your mommy take my helicopter next time we're in Alagua City?" Hayden offered.
"Okay!" Kevin shouted.
"Hmm!" Lillian chirped excitedly.