Chapter 997 - Christmas at the Cliffside villa (1) (1/2)
~ Los Angeles, Cliffside villa ~
December 25
It's Christmas, and the Cliffside villa was never livelier.
Stella and Edward arrived the previous day, to help with decorating the house. They guessed that due to Aiden's situation, Sarah will not do much, however, they were surprised to see that the house is decorated, and there is a huge Christmas tree. Well, you can never have too much decorations for Christmas (according to Stella).
Stella got Emma and Penny involved, so they were busy as well. Sophia was watching them from the sofa. Stella called Sarah to come, but Sarah told her that she already did her part of the decorating, and that she is done.
When Stella found out who all is coming, she rushed to the city to few stores which are open late for an emergency Christmas present shopping.
Before heading to bed on Christmas eve, the two floors above ground were set up, lit up, and ready for Christmas.
Edward got Felix engaged, and two of them added more lights in the garden and the driveway area.
Back to present.
Besides regulars: Sarah, Aiden, Sophia, Felix, Penny and Emma, Stella and Edward are here. And let's not forget about Charlie (he can be called a regular).
Jarred wanted Charlie to join the rest of the Smith family for Christmas, but Charlie said that he can't miss his therapy. Jarred didn't believe him but didn't want to argue either so he allowed him to do whatever he wants, and he approves of Charlie bonding with kids from White and Hill families. Jarred told Charlie that until his legs heal, he can take it easy and enjoy. After that, he needs to go back to business.
JoAnna and Jeff arrived later that morning with Elanor and Oscar. They met with Steve and Bridgette at the front door.
Just before lunch time, Jasper and Ellie made their entrance. How did two of them ended up coming? JoAnna talked to Ellie few days ago, and they touched the topic of Christmas. Ellie said that she does not care much about it because she didn't celebrate Christmas at home since her mother passed away…”The only thing I miss about Christmas are parties that your family hosted… but it seems that there will not be a party this year…”, Ellie whined. JoAnna said that they will all gather at Sarah's house so technically, the party is there. Ellie mentioned that to Jasper, and they ended up coming to Los Angeles.
Sophia and JoAnna immediately pulled Ellie on the side to discuss… the ring! Yup, Ellie and Jasper are officially engaged with the ring and everything. Emma, Penny, Bridgette and Sarah joined to hear all about the romantic helicopter ride to the luxurious mountaintop resort which Jasper booked just for the two of them, and flowers, and music and good wine and… he got on his knee… and she said 'yes' . Ah! There is another wedding coming!
Stella was not very happy that in about thirty years, this is the first time that they are not celebrating Christmas in their home. But she knows that Sarah will not leave Aiden's side, and Sophia and JoAnna will stay with Sarah… so she had to come to Los Angeles in order to spend this holiday with her daughters. She sighed when she remembered that few months ago she imagined that her daughters with their male counterparts will come to their house for Christmas, but now if she stayed home it would be only Edward and her. And maybe Owen.
They had their lunch buffet-style and all staff members joined them as well.
After lunch, it was time for present opening.
Everyone brought at least few presents, so they were all crammed under the Christmas tree, expanding to the sides as well.
”Where are you going?”, Sarah asked Bec and Tristan who were on their way out. ”Stay a bit longer. There are presents for everyone.”