Sweet Mischief’s Rollercoaster Romance

By ten in the morning, everyone was finally up, moving around in that leisurely, vacation sort of way.

Anya still hadn't caught up on her sleep. She snuggled into her boyfriend's arm, head tucked against his shoulder, and promptly drifted back off.

Their plane landed at six in the evening.

The island they arrived on was private—just the right size for four families to have their own little paradise without tripping over each other. It sat nestled in the tropics, where the air was always warm and the sky, as their plane touched down, was painted with streaks of sunset over the sea.

Mrs. Cedillo adored sunsets, so Andre had the pilot circle the island a few extra times just for her, letting her soak in every vivid color until her heart was content.

By the time they finally stepped off the plane, everyone had already changed into flowing summer dresses and breezy shorts. Even little Henry wasn't spared-he was stripped right there and wriggled into a bright shirt and a pair of cheerful shorts. His fuzzy socks were swapped for tiny sandals that clicked onto his pudgy feet. With such light clothes, he was a joy to cuddle.

As soon as they hit the tarmac, Andre popped open a sun umbrella for his wife and son. He knew his gorgeous wife was no fan of the sun.

Villas dotted the island, some perched right along the water's edge, where you could lean out your window and watch the endless blue stretch out forever.noveldrama

Andre had booked their suite well in advance. The four families' rooms circled the bay, creating a cozy little neighborhood. The biggest villa, naturally, belonged to the Cedillo family.

The Calder family's flight was half an hour late. When they arrived, Anya bolted across the sand, shouting, "Dad! Mom!"

Mrs. Calder, arms full of her son, quickly handed him to her husband and swept Anya up in a hug. "You're so happy to see us, huh, sweetheart?”

Anya had her reasons, but she couldn't find the words for them.

The "big bad wolf" phase had passed, and Leo had transformed into the model son-in-law-polite, considerate, always quick to help. "Let me take your bags, Uncle, Auntie," he offered, all eager smiles.

Mrs. Calder could hardly be more pleased, but Anya just pouted, her eyes full of silent protest. She'd been soft-hearted and dumb, staying for her boyfriend, and now she couldn't even say why.

"James, come here! Big sister wants a hug, let's sleep together tonight!" Anya coaxed.

Little James, still unsure about this girl who was supposed to be his sister, peered up at her with a puzzled face. He'd hardly seen her since he was born-just glimpses on the phone when their mom called.

Soon, Henry from the Cedillo family toddled over, calling out, "Little brother!"

James's eyes lit up as he spotted his big brother. He waved his chubby hands, babbling, "Ahh, ooh, mmm!"-the secret language of babies.

Wayne, usually impossible to wake up, stirred in his mother's arms at the sound of their chatter. He rubbed his face against her arm, then twisted around, curious, to look at the slightly older baby. "Awwoo!" he chimed in.

Three babies, four families the stroller didn't stand a chance. Even Wayne, famous for his laziness, sat up in his walker, ready to join the fun.

That night, all four families gathered at the island's central restaurant. The staff had the place gleaming, tables set with roasted turkey, grilled seafood, fresh salads, and creamy cheesecakes.

Hansen Cedillo sat at the head of the table, beaming at the happy crowd. "Finally, all four families together, not a single one missing."

He raised his glass. "Come on, let's toast to the New Year."

Andre hadn't even picked up his wine yet, but his little boy was already clutching his sippy cup with both hands. Thinking Grandpa wanted to clink glasses, he knelt on his chair, tiny bottom jutting out, and stretched across the table, eager to be part of the celebration.