Shit! What time is it?" Alyona suddenly sat up from Bazyli's lap. They had been so engrossed in chatting and having fun that they hadn't realized how late it had gotten after dinner. They enjoyed each other's company and shared lots of laughs. "It's 11pm," Bazyli replied. "I have to go home, Baz. It's really late," Alyona said, starting to pack her things. He didn't want her to leave, but he knew she wouldn't be comfortable staying at his place. "Let me grab my keys. I'll be right down," he told her as he went upstairs. Aly couldn't help but smile as she watched him go. As she touched her lips, Alyona couldn't help but remember the sweet kiss she shared with Bazyli a few hours ago. It made her feel all warm and fuzzy inside. He had been so gentle and tender. "Ready?" he asked, surprising her as he came down the stairs with his bike key in hand. "Yeah," she replied. He walked over to where she was standing and pulled her into a hug. Her hair smelled like bubblegum

The moment Ayanda stepped through the door of the Maximilian Penthouse, she gasped. It had been a while since Giada and Jaxon had last visited the penthouse, and it was even more breathtaking than they remembered. The last time they had been there was for their father's birthday, a joyous occasion that now felt like a distant memory."Wait till you see the room," Giada chuckled, her voice filled with anticipation as they lugged their suitcases up the grand staircase."Hi Courtney, is there anything we can eat?" Jaxon called out to the long-time caretaker of the penthouse. Courtney had been a fixture in their lives for as long as Jaxon could remember, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the expansive property with unwavering dedication."Yes, the cook is preparing you something delicious," Courtney replied with a warm smile. "Go ahead and freshen up, and I'll come and get you when it's ready."Jaxon enveloped Courtney in a hug, the familiarity of her presence bringing a wave of com

Kayden hurriedly descended the staircase to see what presents Santa had left him under the Christmas tree. He had been looking forward to receiving his presents throughout the week. “ Kayden, have you washed your face yet?” his mother called from the top of the stairs. “ B-but the presents,” the three-year-old pouted, pointing at the tree. “ Come on, let's go wash your face and brush your teeth and then you can open up your presents,” Ida said. The toddler reluctantly climbed up the stairs to his mother. ~~Giada and Jax decided to spend the Christmas with Aly after they got home from the Penthouse. They didn't like the idea of staying at their father's house alone when their mother wasn't there. Aly was more than happy to have her siblings spend the holidays with her. It had been a long while since they did that together. “Jax! Giada! Breakfast is served.” Alyona called from the kitchen. She had a few rounds to do so she had to be up early to fix them something to eat before s

As the clock hit midnight, the Maximilian family burst out in jubilation, signalling the start of the new year. Xara, her siblings, and their mother gathered at her house for a happy celebration. The year had been a smorgasbord of accomplishments, new contacts, rich business transactions, and the joyful addition of a new family member. Xara raised her glass for a toast, capturing the essence of the moment. "To new opportunities, finding love, and growth!" Her eyes playfully met Aly's, knowing full well the undertones of her mother's words. The prospect of love lingered in the air, and Xara couldn't help but hope for her daughter's heart to find its counterpart. As the family rejoiced downstairs, Zeke, Aly's best friend and confidant, sensed that something weighed on her mind. Their unspoken connection led them to Xara's room, where the air was filled with a mix of celebration and the unspoken. "Are you okay?" Zeke inquired, breaking the silence that surrounded Aly. "I'm fine, Zeke,

Ximena was beyond excited! "Someone's looking extra happy tonight. Come on, girl, spill the beans—how did your big date go?!" she exclaimed. Her friend playfully glared back. "Only because you're so darn curious. Alright, I'll tell you about it." Ximena leaned in with anticipation."So he came to pick me up, and we hit the road. First stop was a cute little coffee shop to grab some drinks before the party. We chatted the whole ride there, and the time just flew by!" she recalled with a big smile. "It sounds like you two really connected. I'm so glad you had such a great time!" Ximena beamed. It was obvious that this date was a total success."Hey, are those flowers?" Xi asked, noticing the fresh bouquet by her bed. "After about an hour at the party, we slipped away. But he had another surprise—the most beautiful garden I've ever seen! It was on his property, but a little walk from the event. Nice and quiet too. Just peaceful.""There was a cozy blanket fort, a hammock under the tre