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Chapter 10 - THE HOUSE OF JOY

One Year Later.

The afternoon sun blazed over the Atlantic Ocean, casting a golden shine across the manicured lawns of the Carter estate.

The tall iron gates were open, not to hide the family from the world, but to welcome dozens of guests who filled the sprawling rear gardens. Laughter and soft music drifted through the air, accompanied by the delicious aroma of roasted jollof rice, grilled fish, and sweet plantains.

Children were running everywhere across the green grass.

Playing tag near the fountain was seven-year-old Deborah—her face full of healthy color, her laughter ringing out clear and strong, completely cured and full of boundless energy. Chasing right behind her were Daniel and David, while Diana stood near the cake table, acting like a protective big sister, making sure Deborah didn't trip over her party dress.

Mrs. Adebayo walked through the garden carrying a tray of fresh drinks, a permanent, joyful smile fixed on her face. The mansion was no longer a war zone. It was a home filled with warmth, life, and love.

Inside the grand master suite, Naomi stood before a full-length mirror.

She wore a breathtaking lace wedding gown that flowed down her silhouette like white foam, intricate gold embroidery highlighting her rich brown skin. Her hair was styled in an elegant updraft, adorned with delicate white pearls.

There was a soft knock on the door, and Ethan stepped inside.

He wore a tailored dark navy tuxedo, looking strikingly handsome. But the cold, distant look that had once defined his gray eyes was completely gone, replaced by a deep, radiant joy that shone whenever he looked at the woman standing before him.

Ethan walked up behind Naomi, wrapping his arms around her waist, resting his chin gently on her shoulder as they both looked at their reflection in the glass.

"You are the most beautiful vision I have ever seen in my life, Mrs. Carter," Ethan whispered, kissing her cheek softly.

Naomi smiled, resting her hands over his. "I haven't taken your name yet, Mr. Carter. The ceremony is in twenty minutes."

"You took my heart a year ago," Ethan replied softly, turning her around in his arms so she was facing him. "Every day since you walked through those gates with your small handbag and your fierce spirit, you have saved this family. You saved my children, you saved my home, and you saved me."

Naomi looked up into the eyes of the man who had become her partner, her protector, and her greatest love.

"Twelve nannies ran away from your house, Ethan," Naomi teased softly, a bright spark of wit flashing in her eyes. "They said no salary in the world was worth your impossible triplets."

Ethan laughed—a rich, warm sound that filled the room. "And what do you say, my love?"

Naomi reached up, gently adjusting his bowtie, her eyes shining with absolute truth and lasting peace.

"I say... some blessings come dressed as battles. And I would choose this house, these children, and you... in every lifetime."

Hand in hand, Ethan and Naomi walked out onto the grand balcony overlooking the garden. Down below, the triplets and Deborah looked up, pointing and cheering loudly as the guests applauded.

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The Carter mansion was still beautiful on the outside.

But inside, for the rest of their days... it was love.

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