"Neveah the sandwiches are ready!" mom announced as she put the tray filled with mini sandwiches on the kitchen counter. Her face full of life and spirit. She looked gorgeous in her pink dress with her brunette hair half tied.

"Thanks mom!" I sighed and looked at her gratefully. "I don't know what I would have done without you!" Andrew and his boys along with her arrived a few hours ago for the party, just so she could help me and contribute to the arrangements and snacks.

"Well from what your body language tells me, I can say nothing." she said tauntingly. I playfully glared at her. She didn't change at all from her sassy and witty self.

"How did you know?" I exclaimed, shocked.

"I am your mother Neveah!" she said as if it explained everything. I shook my head at her and got back to the cake I was busy making. There were still a few hours left before the guests start to arrive.

"Have you told him?" she asked as she began to work on the sausage rolls.

I avoided her eyes and continued putting the icing on the cake. "Not yet!"

I heard her sigh in disappointment. "Why?"

"He is out of the country for the weekend and I just found out two days ago. I couldn't exactly tell him over the phone."

I missed him terribly. He has been gone to Canada for business for the weekend. This was the first time he went alone, otherwise he would always take Nolan and me with him wherever he goes. I was the one who forced him to go alone since I had to make preparations for Nolan's third birthday and send out all the invites. He had scowled at me but promised to return as soon as possible. But now he called an hour ago telling me that he might be a bit late for his son's birthday. Since then I have not been in my best of moods.

"Mrs. Wallace." I heard Grace's voice from the kitchen entrance. She was Nolan's nanny, a beautiful blonde in her early thirties. She has been working for us since Nolan was a few months old and was very efficient and punctual at her job. Sebastian had been a little wary due to his protective father instincts and trust issues but I had liked her instantly. She was good with our son.

Her tone was apologetic. I looked at Nolan's face and I knew why.

His clothes, which I had especially bought for his birthday, were dirty and muddy and so was his face, which was lowered right now. He had his arms joined in front of him and he was fidgeting nervously.

I sighed. "What happened?"

"We were playing in the garden and he fell." Grace answered anxiously.

I walked around the counter and knelt before him. He had an adorable pout on his face, his eyes wide like saucers. I couldn't resist that face and all my supposed anger diminished. He looked so much like his father with his dark hair and blue eyes. I always wanted my children to look like Sebastian and I got my wish fulfilled when I held Nolan in my arms for the first time. I had cried and so did Sebastian, although he would never admit it. It was an awe-inspiring moment for the both of us.

"Are you hurt?" I asked worriedly as I cupped his face.

"No, but i'm dirty momma!" he said in a small voice.

I was relieved. "It's okay. I'll get you cleaned up in no time." I smiled at him and got up, grabbing his little soft hand in my own.

"I can do that Mrs. Wallace!"

"No thank you Grace, I'll do it. But you can help with putting the biscuits in the oven."

She smiled brightly at me. "Sure!"

I took Nolan in his blue colored themed room and gave him a quick bath. He was clean and fresh in no time. He was such a good boy, he never threw a tantrum or a fit when I gave him a bath or changed his clothes, he actually liked it when I bathed him. He was even calm, obedient and complaisant with Grace, who always complained that I do not let her do anything even though it is her job to look out for Nolan. What can I say, I like doing things for my son!

I changed him into jeans, his favorite shirt which he chose himself and a jacket. He was back to being animated and cheery. "Momma when daddy come?" he was still improving on his speech with the help of Sebastian but he was good considering he just turned three today.

I tied the laces of his shoes and looked at him. "He will be here baby but a little late." I couldn't lie to him just for assurance.

"Why?"

I inhaled. "His meeting was a bit delayed because his clients are late." I tried to explain to him even though I know he will not be able to understand what I just told him. Just as I said, his face scrunched up adorably. He looked at me confused.

I chuckled. "He will be here, he will not miss your birthday for anything!"

He nodded his head, although I know he was a little disappointed. I kissed his cheek and told him to go play outside again until his friends from preschool arrive. "Be careful!" I called out to him as he ran out of the door.

At around five in the evening the guests began to arrive. It was mostly Nolan's friends with their parents and some of his teachers. I had changed into my cream colored dress with white heels by then and was standing next to the entrance door to receive the guests. The whole mansion was adorned with bright lights and decorations, I wanted nothing less for Nolan. Sebastian bought this castle like mansion in Manhattan before Nolan was one year old, much to my protests. I was happy living in his penthouse but he shut me up after telling me that he wanted a very large family with me and the penthouse will not be able to fit all of us. We had celebrated Nolan's first birthday in this place. It was beautiful and astounding with its large floor to ceiling windows, neatly polished floor and expensive Italian furniture, with each room uniquely designed. It had its own game room and indoor swimming pool, which was Nolan's favorite. A bar, fitness room and home theater.

I was more than happy when the rest of my family began to arrive. Dad embraced me as soon as he entered with Ophelia, his wife. Dad began dating Ophelia a few months after getting discharged from the hospital. She was his neighbor at the apartment he lived in, the one Mrs. Walsh that informed him about me when I had passed out outside of his apartment building. She was a widow who lost her husband to a heart attack and has two children of her own who are away in college. They married last year and I couldn't have been more happy for my dad. He looked so much radiant and contented and the same could be said for Ophelia.

After hugging and exchanging some pleasantries with them, I guided them to the living room and offered them some refreshments. Moving back to the foyer, I saw Oliver tickling Nolan mercilessly who was squealing with joy. His laughter music to my ears.

On his side was Eva, his girlfriend, whom he met in Chicago a few months ago. She was a dark-haired darling and a sweetheart, extremely polite and gentle. We were good friends.

"Stop, the poor boy can't breathe Oliver!" she chuckled and playfully berated him.

I walked to my son's rescue and took him out of Oliver's arms, scowling at him. "What? He was enjoying it, weren't you buddy?" he directed at my son.

"Yes uncle Oli!" Nolan exclaimed joyfully.

"See!" Oliver shrugged glancing at me and then his girlfriend.

I shook my head at him and turned to my son. "Grandpa is here, he is asking for you. Go and greet him." I put him back on the floor.

"He is?" he asked with a twinkle in his eyes. He was very close to dad because apparently he was his only grandfather. He will never know his paternal grandfather, I will make sure of it.

"He is the living room!" I answered him and he ran off while giggling.

"Eva is that what I think it is?" I asked her with my eyes wide open, staring at the engagement ring on her finger.

They both blushed. "Oliver proposed yesterday!" she beamed at me, while cuddling his side. He wrapped his arms around her and looked at her adoringly.

"Oh my God, congratulations!" I hugged them both happily. "When is the wedding?"

"Maybe in a few months! We haven't really decided yet, but you are definitely going to be my matron of honor!"

I stared at her in shock. "Wow..I'll be honored!"

After a few more conversations, I too ushered them in the living room.

Soon I welcomed Elizabeth and Mr. Parsons. Things were still a little tense between us but I didn't want my son to miss out on his grandmother and great uncle. Elizabeth meant a lot to Sebastian and she adored my son, that is all the reason I need to let her enter my home and our lives. On the other hand dealing with Mr. Parsons was tough because he was my boss once and I still couldn't forget how demeaningly he had thrown me out of his office. He had apologized humbly to me and also to his son after he came to know about his brother-in-law's true nature. He was furious after seeing Elizabeth's interview on the television about her abuse and torment by her husband, and said he was so controlled by money and greed, he was unable to even see his own sister's agony. He gave up his title as CEO and chairperson of Randon and gave Sebastian free reign to take over the company. Sebastian did end up merging the two companies together and is now the Chairman and CEO of Wallace Corporation, appointing me as the power of attorney.

"Thank you for inviting us Neveah!" Elizabeth said as she embraced me. I immediately stiffened but willed my body to relax. "Is Sebastian here?"

"No, he might be late!" I gave her a courteous smile. "Everyone is in the living room. Please go and enjoy some refreshments."

She sighed at my dismissive tone. "Are you not joining us?"

"I will when Sebastian is here."

She nodded her head and they both left to the living room without saying anything further.

I waited for him at the door till ten minutes. My feet began hurting from standing constantly and I began shifting from one foot to another. The noises of adults chattering and the squealing and howling of children were coming from the living room, but socializing held no appeal for me right now. Not until he was by my side.

I exhaled tiredly and turned halfway around to walk away from the door, because leaving the guests unattended was not polite, but before I could fully turn away I felt arms wrap around me from behind. His delightful and exquisite scent enveloped me making me dizzy. His hot breathing next to my ear made me close my eyes and shiver in pleasure.

"You look ravishing!" he kissed my shoulder.

"You're here?" I asked, surprised.

"I am here!" he turned me towards him and kissed my temple.

I felt my eyebrows furrow. "How?" he himself looked mouthwatering in a black suit.

"My clients were late..." he began angrily. "I waited for them for an extra two hours but still they didn't show up. I was enraged and cancelled the meeting, told them if they wanted a deal next time they should learn to be punctual. I came back as soon as I could. I can't miss my son's big day!" he smiled.

I beamed and wrapped my arms around him. "I was worried you wouldn't be able to make it, so was Nolan. He missed you." I pecked him.

He nodded his head. "And did you miss me?" his voice husky and sultry, eyes darkening with desire.

"Every minute of everyday!" I bit my lip. My voice held the same want and desire. He groaned and captured my lips with his own. They moved in synchronization with passion and need. Fire still surges through me and my heart soars with love just at the sight of him. From the look of longing and yearning on his face, I know he feels the same.

"Nolan will be waiting!" I reluctantly tore my lips away from him.

Understanding dawned on his face and he nodded, not releasing me. Instead he wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me towards the living room.

"Daddy!" Nolan's face broke into a huge grin at seeing his father. He ran towards Sebastian and jumped on him. Sebastian caught him with ease and picked him up in his arms, kissing his head affectionately.

"Happy Birthday son!"

"Thank you daddy!" Everyone laughed at his cuteness.

Grace brought the cake in a trolley and everyone gathered around it. Sebastian carefully handed Nolan the knife and we both helped him cut his cake by holding onto his tiny hand. Everyone began singing and clapping to the birthday song and Nolan shrieked with joy. After the cake he began opening his presents which included toys, clothes, puzzles, board games and books along with his friends. Like he didn't have enough of those things already! Dad even gave him his own bike while Sebastian promised him a trip to Manchester soon because Nolan had wanted to visit that place for a long time now. Sebastian always talked to Nolan proudly about his estate in Manchester which he had given to me as a wedding present. It still belonged to me with a few of his other properties he has transferred to my name. Nolan had wished to go there to witness the beauty and the glory himself and now he was going to get his wish fulfilled.

"Is he going to be safe on the bike?" I asked worriedly.

"He will be fine, besides it is his age to learn. I'll teach it to him myself!" Sebastian assured. I nodded my head at him. The rest of the evening passed like a blur with constant laughter and entertainment especially due to the children and soon it was time for everyone to leave.

I brushed a lock of dark hair away from his forehead and caressed his cheek, pondering on the life I would have without this man beside me. The possibility brought tears in my eyes. Him and Nolan were my everything now and the thought of losing any of them makes my stomach churn. Sebastian changed so much, his urge for revenge, the consuming of darkness, the restlessness even after the imprisonment of his father completely gone as soon as he held Nolan for the first time. He was so more dedicating towards us now and that made me fall in love with him more and more every day.

"What are you looking at?" his voice still enticing. His eyes were closed.

"How did you know I was staring?" I began to retrieve my hand but he grabbed it and put it back on his cheek, motioning for me to continue my caressing.

"I could feel your eyes at me." he opened his hungry ones that sent tremors through my body. "I know I am good to look at but learn to manage self control Neveah." his tone playful. "I mean we just finished a while ago!"

I glared and snorted. "You are getting old at just thirty-one?" I went to get out of bed but he pulled me back and hovered over me. I chuckled.

"Let me show you how old I am getting!" he smirked and connected our lips together, making the air around us charged. His arousal was pressed just outside of my entrance as he teased me making me groan. The feel of his naked body on mine, our chests pressed together and our intertwined legs did not help the already ignited fire within me.

He was just about to enter me when tiny fingers were knocking on our door. "Momma!" I heard Nolan's anxious and fearful voice.

Sebastian immediately got off me and threw me my robe which had been discarded on the floor in the heat of the moment after my shower, when Sebastian had seduced me. He calmed down and quickly put his pants back on. I opened the double doors of our room and Nolan hurriedly grabbed onto my legs. He was trembling and sniffing. I knelt down before him and there was wetness on his face.

"Baby what's wrong? Why are you crying?" I asked wiping his eyes. I felt Sebastian stand next to me and there was worry on his face as well.

"Bad dream momma!" Nolan hiccuped.

"What was it about?"

"You and daddy hurt!" Another round of tears escaped his beautiful eyes. I hugged him and rubbed his back.

"It was just a nightmare baby, everything is okay. We are fine!" I assured him and looked at Sebastian. There was a frown on his face.

"Nothing is going to happen Nolan." he picked him up in his arms. "Mommy and daddy are both fine."

Nolan nodded his head after a few more words of comfort.

"Do you want to sleep with us or go back to your room?" I asked him as I kissed his cheeks.

"My room!"

We chuckled and looked at him proudly. "You are so brave!" I said and he smiled shyly at me.

We began walking towards his room and on the way he continued to tell us how he enjoyed his birthday party with his friends and his presents when Sebastian asked him as a distraction. After putting him in his bed we stayed at his side until he eyes began to droop and he was fast asleep. I kissed his forehead and Sebastian did the same as he covered him with the blanket up to his chin. I smiled at the loving look Sebastian had as he stared at Nolan.

We closed his bedroom door behind us and Sebastian sighed in relief. "He is so close to you!" I stated with a hint of envy.

"No he is not." he denied.

"Yes he is! He doesn't eat without you or at least without hearing your voice, doesn't sleep until you read to him, always follows you in everything you do. He sometimes doesn't even let me carry him because he wants to be carried by you. It is like I don't even exist!" I grumbled and crossed my arms at my chest.

"I can't believe you are arguing with me because you are jealous of my relationship with my son." he chuckled and enveloped me in his arms. All my frustration melted. Maybe it was my hormones talking or I was just afraid I wasn't a good mother and was doing something wrong.

"You are just so good with him." my eyes lowered.

"He can be a handful, but I won't have it any other way Neveah. And you are the perfect mother to him. He adores you and is more closer to you than you realize." he gripped my chin and made me face him again. "Don't doubt yourself."

I inhaled and mustered up the courage to tell him."I hope you are ready to have another one." I was biting my lip nervously.

His eyes widened with shock. "You're pregnant?"

I nodded my head.

His face broke into a huge smile. He picked me up and twirled me around. I laughed but not too loudly, aware of our sleeping son just a few feet away.

"You make me so happy." he exclaimed as he put me back down and began raining kisses all over my face. "I love you!"

"I love you too!" I whispered a mere breath away from his lips.

He smiled and joined our lips together.