Love at First Novel

"Mr. York just got here. Why don't we let him rest a bit and head back in the evening?" Jane suggested.

Alannah agreed, "Yes, let's leave in the evening. Seren can return to Wiltspoon tomorrow or the day after. Mr. York must be tired from his business trip, so let him relax at our place. Plus, tomorrow's the weekend-perfect for Ben to join us." Zachary smiled and said, "That sounds good, but I don't want to impose." Alannah reassured him, "You're not imposing at all. We'd love to have you here. And I'm sure Sonny isn't ready to leave yet." She called Sonny over, pulling him into her arms, and asked, "Would you like to stay and play a bit longer?"

Sonny replied, "I don't mind. I'll go back when my aunt goes back. I'm staying with her."Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.

Liberty hadn't come back yet, so Sonny wasn't in a rush.

Zachary said, "You're having so much fun, huh? Well, your mom will be back soon. Uncle Duncan already went to Jensburg to pick her up."

Sonny just nodded, "Oh."

He knew about it but had jokingly complained that Duncan didn't take him along to see his mom.

Duncan explained that Sonny was having too much fun at FC Manor to leave, and besides, Jensburg was far and cold. It was okay for a short visit, but not for a long stay.

Sonny stopped complaining but playfully made Duncan promise to take him along next time. Duncan just laughed, finding Sonny's jealousy over his mom amusing.

"Alright, let's leave in the evening," Serenity said.

Zachary agreed. Even if Serenity wanted to stay another night at the Murphy's, he'd gladly stay with her.

The Murphy family's house had plenty of rooms, so staying there would be no problem. Of course, staying at FC Manor would be even nicer-more space and the chance to spend time with friends. "Mr. York, have you eaten?" Jane asked suddenly.

Zachary replied, "We had a little something on the plane."

"Are you still hungry?" Jane asked.

Zachary politely declined, saying he wasn't hungry and didn't want them to go to the trouble of cooking again.

Serenity then led Zachary to the guest room to rest.

As soon as they entered and closed the door, Zachary wrapped his arms around Serenity from behind, turning her to face him.

"Seren, I missed you so much," he said, holding her tightly.

Serenity hugged him back, "I missed you too. Every free moment I had, I was thinking of you and worrying about everyone. I'm just so relieved that you're all safe."

"I promise I'll always come home to you," Zachary said, gently letting her go and placing his hand on her growing belly.

The baby gave a little kick.

"Seren!" Zachary said softly, eyes wide with wonder. "The baby kicked! I just

felt it."

Serenity laughed, giving him a playful look. "If the baby didn't move, then we'd be worried. The kicks are stronger now, especially in the evenings. It's amazing to feel."

Zachary knelt down, resting his face gently against her belly, his hand placed softly on it. He whispered, "Hey, baby, it's Daddy. I'm back from my trip, here to take you and Mommy home."