The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 63

Suddenly, a flurry of noise echoed down the staircase.

Four little ones appeared, each dragging a suitcase nearly as big as themselves. Determination and excitement lit up their faces as they announced in unison, “Mom, we’re coming with you!”

The unexpected scene left everyone frozen in place. The kids had clearly packed in advance, ready and waiting for this very moment.

Noah stepped forward, speaking for his brothers. “Wherever you go, Mom, we’re going too.”

Dennis shifted awkwardly, trying to explain, “Um... Mr. Austin only asked me to pick up Ms. Thomson. He didn’t mention you kids…”

As soon as Dennis finished, a chill seemed to sweep through the room. He glanced over his shoulder to find a dozen pairs of Thomson family eyes fixed on him, their stares sharp enough to cut.

Quickly, Dennis forced a smile, scrambling to recover. “But of course, since Ms. Thomson is now with Mr. Austin, the children are part of his family too. Don’t worry, Mr. Austin will treat them as his own.”

The moment the words left his mouth, those fierce glares only intensified.

Dennis rubbed his head, silently questioning himself—Had he said the wrong thing again? The Thomsons really weren’t easy to handle.

Michael’s voice sliced through the tension, cold and direct. “They’re Thomsons. What does this have to do with your Mr. Austin?”

His gaze was steely, never leaving Dennis.

Dennis faltered, realizing his blunder. He shuffled his feet, pasting on another apologetic smile. “Of course, Mr. Thomson, I spoke out of turn.”

No sooner had Rebecca stepped out than the entire Thomson family broke down in tears. Sorrow washed through the house; the air was thick with grief.

Her brothers were especially distraught. Overcome by emotion, they turned on their grandfather, accusing him of favoritism. If not for his decision, Becky would never have been forced to leave.

Matthew’s voice trembled, his jaw tight with anger. “Grandpa, how could you do this to Becky? She’s the heart of our family, and you’re just letting her go?”

Samuel chimed in, “Becky’s always been so good, she’s given everything to this family. How can you just marry her off so easily?”

William and Michael added their own voices, each echoing the pain of seeing their beloved sister go.

The old man listened to his grandsons’ accusations, his face growing stormy. He barked, “Enough! One more word out of any of you, and you can pack your bags and go!”