Unmasking Mrs. Newton's Secret Identities novel Chapter 1601

"That's a beautiful drawing," Chandler said, a slight smile crossing his lips. "Thank you, both of you."

Maddie enveloped her two kids in a warm embrace, her face shining with joy.

"Let's gather for a group photo!" the photographer announced from the stage.

The children grinned brightly, standing proudly in the center with their artwork. Chandler and Maddie positioned themselves on either side, creating a picture-perfect family moment.

Though Chandler appeared calm, his eyes subtly scanned the crowd.

By the time Helen arrived, the gathering was in full swing. After signing in, she made her way to a quieter corner.

Brimming with curiosity, the kids excitedly pulled her forward, effortlessly drawing her into the heart of the event.

At that moment, Chandler caught sight of her through the crowd.

Helen adjusted her hair and looked up, locking eyes with his deep, enigmatic gaze. The man she had longed for day and night for seven long years was finally standing in front of her.

Chandler clenched his hands tightly in his pockets, struggling to maintain a steady expression.

Helen's eyes filled with tears, a familiar ache blooming in her chest.

From afar, she watched his tall silhouette, envisioning what it would be like for their family of four to stand together on that stage.

In that moment, all the separations they had endured felt worthwhile. Soon, they would reclaim their family and savor the simple joys of life together.

She longed to rush to him, to absorb every change in his appearance.

But even from a distance, the sight of his increasingly chiseled features deepened her heartache. He must have faced so many challenges over the years.

Helen quickly sniffed back her emotions, struggling to hold back tears.

Hearing her soft sobs, Sienna looked up and asked, "Mommy, why are you crying?"

"It's nothing," Helen replied, mustering a smile. "I'm just happy to be here. It's been so long since I attended such a lively event."

"Linc, can you look after Ivy and Nana?" she asked. "Make sure they get something to eat. I'm just going to the restroom and will be back soon. No wandering off, okay?"

"Don't worry, Mommy, I've got it!" Lincoln said with a bright smile.

After offering a few more reminders, Helen turned and made her way toward Chandler.

As soon as Helen left, Ivy spun around and grabbed a piece of cake, quickly shoving it into her mouth.

Lincoln sighed and shook his head. "Why do you love sweets so much? Aren't you worried about getting fat?"

Ivy innocently shook her head and offered him a bite of the cake she had just tasted. "Here, Linc, have some!"

"No, thanks," Lincoln replied, completely uninterested in sweets—he preferred making them for those he cared about.

Instead, he picked out Sienna's favorite dessert from the table and gently fed it to her. "Nana, open wide! Ah!"