Stacey spent two days at Hoggard Manor with Lillian and Kevin. Picking them up, Patrick and Debra were much warmer than before. They laughed and talked the whole day. As dusk fell, Stacey left with her parents. Patrick and Debra invited the Hoggards to visit. Jeremy almost went, but Hayden stopped him, wanting to give Stacey space.

Back at the Carter Villa, Patrick and Debra had exciting news: Adrian and Isabella were engaged! They'd gotten their marriage certificate two days earlier and planned a Christmas/wedding celebration in Alagua City once Isabella's company broke for the holidays. The Carters were throwing a huge wedding, even without Isabella's requests. It was a whirlwind, but everyone was thrilled. Even Stacey's grandparents, Elijah and Deanna, pitched in.

For years, the Carters had been unhappy after losing their daughter. But now, with Becky's return and their sons finding partners, smiles were everywhere. Elijah and Deanna adored Lillian and Kevin, as did Debra's brother, Dennis. Dennis, back from vacation, visited the Carter Villa instead of going straight home. He and Stacey got along famously.

He wanted to take Lillian and Kevin home, but Debra refused, still anxious after losing Becky. Dennis understood. He spent a day at the villa, then returned the next day with his family. Carter Manor had plenty of room. Soon, Dennis was playing with Lillian, Kevin, Jeremy, and his own children.

Then Adrian and Isabella arrived with Damian and Isabella's sister, Carly, and Ronald. Dennis was captivated by Damian, who looked exactly like Adrian. Damian was shy, but Dennis patiently played with him, eventually winning him over. Isabella was amazed; she saw Damian blossoming around the Carters, becoming less timid.

The Carter Villa's garden had changed since Stacey's last visit. A year ago, it was simple. Now, it was a children's paradise, complete with a maze, slide, seesaw, and a snail decoration. Damian, Lillian, Kevin, Jeremy, Ronald, and Dennis' daughter, Mildred, played happily.

While the children played, the adults bustled with wedding preparations. Adrian and Isabella tried on dresses and accessories. Carly, needing a formal gown, joined in, happy to see the Carters' excitement for Isabella.