Chapter 20 California Dreaming
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The sun was soft and golden as the plane descended over California. It was supposed to be a short getaway—some peace, a bit of warmth, and Layla’s six-month baby appointment. But before any beaches or luxury villas, Layla had someone she needed to see.
Lina.
Her fake sister. The girl who had grown up beside her, who had been kidnapped with her. Even though the truth had shattered everything Layla thought she knew, her heart still ached for Lina, who was still in the hospital.
Jasper didn’t say a word as he drove her there. He just held her hand the whole time, his thumb brushing soothing circles against her palm.
When they arrived, Layla slipped into Lina’s hospital room, where the pale girl lay sleeping. Machines beeped softly. She looked so fragile, so lost. Layla sat beside her and whispered, “You’re still my sister, Lina. No matter what the DNA says.”
Lina stirred, blinking slowly. When she saw Layla, her lips trembled. “I didn’t know,” she whispered. “I swear, Layla, I didn’t know they weren’t really our parents... I didn’t want to lie to you.”
Tears welled up in Layla’s eyes. “I know. I believe you.”
A moment later, Jasper stepped into the room, placing a quiet envelope on the table. “Everything’s covered. The best doctors, the best treatments. As long as she needs.”
Lina blinked, stunned. “But... that must cost...”
“Don’t worry about the cost,” Jasper said gently. “You’re important to her. That’s enough for me.”
Lina covered her face with her hands, overcome with emotion. “Thank you... thank you so much.”
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That evening, they visited Layla’s real little sister Camille, who now lived happily with their older brother Adrien Dumas. The estate was grand and secure, and the moment Camille saw Layla, she ran into her arms.
“You look so pretty with your baby bump!” Camille giggled, touching her belly gently. “Is it a girl or boy?”
“We don’t know yet,” Layla smiled, hugging her tight. “But they’re already so loved.”
Adrien stood behind Camille, watching them with pride. “She’s been asking about you every day.”
Layla hugged them both tightly. Family. Real family. And this time, no more lies.
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The next day, Layla had her baby appointment. Jasper was right beside her when they saw the ultrasound. The little bump that had started showing now revealed a strong little life inside her.
“That’s our baby,” Jasper whispered, brushing a kiss to her forehead.
Later, they walked barefoot along the beach, waves crashing at their feet. That evening, Jasper posted the long-awaited announcement:
A photo of Layla in a flowy white dress, standing on the balcony, sunlight hitting her bump. His arms around her. A simple caption:
“Mr. & Mrs. Tate. And Baby Tate. Coming soon.”
The world exploded.
But all Layla felt was peace, the kind that came from truth, love... and finally belonging.
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