Chapter 12

Gregory and Christina exchanged a hopeful glance, their eyes fixed on Brittany. "Brittany," Gregory said warmly, "our family's future depends on you."

Brittany blushed. "Mr. Vanderbilt's probably just reaching out because of his upcoming wedding," she murmured, "but maybe he'll contact me later. I can wait."

Christina's smile returned. Grabbing Brittany's hand, she pulled her up. "Come on, let's go shopping! You never know when Mr. Vanderbilt might respond, and you need a stunning wardrobe to meet him." She winked at Gregory. "And it's all on Dad."

Gregory chuckled. "Alright, alright. Go ahead."

Christina and Brittany left, arm in arm, their excitement palpable. Gregory watched them go, a proud smile on his face. Then, a sharp memory pierced his contentment: Paisley, his own daughter. His expression darkened. "Too bad she's so conniving," he muttered. "She'll come crawling back when she hits rock bottom. And when she does… I'll have Brittany help her find some small-time businessman to marry."

The kindergarten buzzed with children's laughter. Serena, however, remained distant, clutching a portrait she'd taken from Paisley's studio. Even at lunch, she barely ate, her mind fixed on the afternoon playtime.

The bell rang. Serena jumped up, the picture clutched to her chest like a treasure. She raced toward the elementary school, determined to find Grayson. "Once he sees this," she thought, "he'll know I'm his sister."

The playground throbbed with activity. Serena spotted Grayson by the fountain. "Hey!" she called, her eyes sparkling. The drawing flapped in the breeze as she ran towards him.

Grayson, engrossed in a book, looked up at the approaching whirlwind. He sighed, rising to leave.

"Wait! I have something to show you!" Serena's voice was sweet, yet insistent. Grayson hesitated.

He turned back, irritation in his eyes. "I've told you already. I'm not your brother. Leave me alone!"

Out of breath, Serena looked up at him, her eyes wide and pleading. "You are… you are…" She gasped for air, her chest heaving.

Grayson noticed the crumpled drawing in her hand, a child's portrait. Serena, catching her breath, continued, "I brought the drawing. It's of you."

She pointed from the drawing to Grayson. "It looks just like him! He's my brother!" She held out the drawing. "See? I'm not lying!"

Before Grayson could react, a sharp shove sent Serena tumbling to the ground. "You little brat! Why are you bothering Sonny?" a furious voice snarled.

Chapter 13