Chapter 67

The Blake estate was an architectural marvel, a testament to the family's wealth and influence. It sprawled over acres of manicured lawns and gardens, its buildings echoing a grandeur that had been maintained through generations. The family temple, nestled in the heart of the estate, was a sanctuary of peace and reflection, often used for private family gatherings. In contrast, the grand reception hall, situated near the mansion, was the hub of activity for the evening's celebrations. Its opulent design, with high ceilings adorned with chandeliers and marble floors gleaming under the soft glow of hundreds of lights, was a sight to behold.

As the clock ticked past 6:30 p.m., the first guests began to arrive, their vehicles lining up the cobblestone driveway. Chauffeurs opened doors for elegantly dressed attendees, who stepped out with an air of sophistication and grace. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The elite of society mingled, exchanging pleasantries and warm smiles as they made their way into the hall. Among the guests were members of the esteemed White family, whose military lineage was well-respected across the nation. Other notable individuals included politicians, business tycoons, and philanthropists, all gathered to honor the legacy of Caleb Blake.

The media presence was substantial. Reporters and photographers from various outlets hovered near the entrance, capturing every moment. Cameras flashed as esteemed actors and artists arrived, each one stopping briefly to pose and answer questions. The journalists, eager to capture soundbites and statements, thrust microphones toward the celebrities, asking about their relationship with the Blake family and their thoughts on Caleb's remarkable milestone.

Inside the hall, the atmosphere was vibrant and celebratory. Lilly, Caleb's granddaughter, stood near the entrance, her eyes scanning the room for familiar faces. When she spotted Sophia and Richard, a genuine smile spread across her face. She moved gracefully through the crowd, her lavender gown flowing around her like a gentle breeze. "Glad you could make it," Lilly said warmly, embracing Sophia and Richard as they reached her.

"We wouldn't miss your grandfather's birthday for the world," Sophia replied with a heartfelt smile. Her eyes twinkled with the genuine affection she held for the Blake family. Beside her, Richard nodded in agreement.

"Indeed, despite any issues between Alexander and me, this is an event we had to attend," Richard added, his voice carrying a note of sincerity. His relationship with Alexander, Lilly's husband, had been strained, but tonight was about family and unity.

Lilly's smile deepened, gratitude evident in her expression. "Thank you for coming and setting aside your differences with Alexander," she said, wrapping her arms around Richard for another hug. The gesture was a testament to the bonds that held them all together, despite any past grievances.

At that moment, Little Viola, Lilly's daughter, dashed across the room, her white princess dress shimmering under the lights. "Uncle Richard, Aunt Sophia!" she squealed, launching herself into Richard's arms.

"Viola," Richard laughed, lifting her up effortlessly. He twirled her around, eliciting a giggle of delight. "Did you miss me?"

She nodded enthusiastically, her small hand reaching out to touch a faint bruise on his face. "What happened?" she asked with childlike curiosity.

"Uncle was being careless," Richard replied, brushing off the question with a smile. It was a simple explanation meant to shield her from the complexities of adult life.

Sophia and Lilly exchanged knowing glances, the real reason for Richard's injury unspoken between them. They both understood the need to protect Viola from unnecessary worries.

The little girl, however, had her own opinions. "Then stop being careless," she admonished him with a stern look, mimicking the tone of a concerned parent.

Richard chuckled, nodding in agreement. "I promise," he said, his tone playful yet sincere.

Satisfied with his response, lily turned her attention to Sophia, wrapping her arms around her. Lilly then asked Sophia, "Where's Theo?" her eyes wide with curiosity, referring to Sophia and Richard's young son.

"He's at home with his grandmother," Sophia explained gently, smoothing down Lilly's hair with a tender touch.

Viola's face fell, disappointment evident in her pout. "Why didn't you bring him?"

Sophia smiled, exchanging a glance with Lilly. "He’s too young for such a large gathering," she said softly. "He’d cry all night with so many people around."

Understanding dawned on Viola's face, and her disappointment melted away. "Okay," she said brightly. "Can I have cookies?"

"Of course," Richard replied with a grin, carrying her toward a table laden with an array of delectable treats. Cookies, cakes, and pastries were artfully arranged, tempting anyone who glanced their way.

As Richard and Viola explored the table, Sophia and Lilly continued their conversation. The bond between them was strong, forged through years of friendship and shared experiences. "Is Alexander here yet?" Sophia inquired, her gaze scanning the crowd for any sign of Lilly's husband.

"Not yet, but he’ll be here soon," Lilly assured her, glancing at her watch.

"You look stunning in that dress, Lilly," Sophia complimented, admiring the elegance of her lavender gown.

Lilly blushed, smoothing down the fabric. "Thank you. Your dress is beautiful too," she replied sincerely.

Sophia, ever the playful one, made an exaggerated bow, prompting a laugh from Lilly. Sophia wore a form-fitting navy blue gown that hugged her figure perfectly, while little Viola sparkled in her white princess dress adorned with sequins, looking every bit the young royalty.

"Where’s your grandfather? I’d love to give him my gift," Sophia said, glancing around the room.

"He’s over there," Lilly pointed, leading Sophia through the throng of guests to where Caleb was engaged in conversation with his friends, including Wilson White, a figure of notable prestige.

"Grandfather," Lilly called out as they approached.

Caleb and Wilson turned their attention toward the two women. Caleb's face broke into a warm smile as he saw his granddaughter.

"Come over here," Caleb beckoned, his voice filled with affection.

Lilly greeted Wilson with a respectful nod. "Hello, Master Wilson."

Wilson smiled back, recalling the initial misjudgment he had made about Lilly, unaware of her connection to Caleb at the time. "How are you?" he asked kindly.

"I’m well, thank you," Lilly replied, her smile genuine.

"Good to hear. Let’s start anew," Wilson suggested, offering a handshake to symbolize a fresh beginning.

"Yes, Master Wilson," Lilly agreed, pleased with his gesture.

Turning her attention back to her grandfather, Lilly introduced Sophia. "Grandfather, Sophia Jonnson is here to wish you a happy birthday."

Caleb recognized Sophia immediately. She was the daughter of the former governor and now married to Richard Jonnson, a prominent figure in the medical field. Her presence at the celebration was both an honor and a delight. "Hello, Master Caleb. Happy 80th birthday," Sophia greeted warmly, extending her hand.

Caleb shook her hand with a smile. "Thank you, Sophia. How’s your father? I haven’t spoken to him since his retirement."

"He’s well, and I’ll pass on your regards," Sophia replied, pleased to reconnect old acquaintances.

With a gesture of sincerity, she handed Caleb a small gift box. Caleb, intrigued, asked Victor, one of his trusted aides, to take it and open it. As Victor lifted the lid, the contents were revealed: an emerald ring, glistening and pristine.

"I lost this ring in an auction. How did you get it?" Caleb asked, astonishment coloring his voice.

"It appeared in another auction, so I bought it for you," Sophia explained simply, a smile on her lips.

Caleb, touched by the thoughtfulness of the gift, remarked, "It must have been expensive."

Sophia shook her head lightly. "Doesn’t matter. Happy birthday," she said with genuine warmth.

Caleb beamed, appreciating both the gesture and the gift. "It’s a beautiful gift. Thank you, Sophia."

As Lilly gently led Sophia away from the gathering, she assured her grandfather, "We’ll be back soon, Grandpa." However, as they turned to leave, a familiar voice interrupted them, freezing Lilly in her tracks.

"Lilly?"

The voice belonged to Peter, her father. Lilly turned slowly, her eyes wide with disbelief. It had been three long years since she had last seen him, since he had left her behind. "Father?" she whispered, the word carrying a mix of shock and emotion.