Norton had sent Kern to subtly suggest several times that he could host the party if Lucinda and Nathan were too occupied.
Nathan hadnât given a clear response, so the idea was left hanging.
On their birthday, the sky over Stastle was overcast.
A continuous drizzle set a gloomy and annoying mood.
N&L Fairy Land was eerily silent, with no festive decorations to mark the occasion.
It seemed like just another ordinary day.
Sonny personally supervised the security detail around N&L Fairy Land, ensuring that no other members of the Payne family were aware of anything.
Colbyâs health was deteriorating.
Despite months of treatment and attentive care, his condition only worsened.
At times, he was so frail that even a few sips of milk would exhaust him, leaving him struggling for breath.
With heavy hearts, Lucinda and Nathan brought the twins to the laboratory.
Aldric was on holiday when he heard they were visiting with the babies.
Startled awake, he hurried over dressed in floral patterned shorts, cotton slippers, and a thick coat.
His casual attire clashed with his gentle demeanor, making him appear like a disheveled scientist.
Nathan frowned upon seeing him.
âAfter all this time apart, youâve let yourself go this much? Floral patterned shorts? Act like the researcher you are!â
Aldric responded in exasperation, âCut me some slack, Nathan.
You should have let me know you were coming.
I was out at a bar last night and only got five hours of sleep.
If Iâd known you were coming, I wouldnât have stayed out late.
â
Nathanâs expression was serious, and he was in no mood for humor.
âStill feeling sleepy? Then go back to bed.
Iâll find another doctor to take the blood samples from the babies.
â
âNo! Our families are closely connected, and Colby and Destinee are like my own nephew and niece.
I wouldnât trust anyone else with their care.
â
Nathanâs frown deepened.
âYou still reek of alcohol.
Are you sure youâre capable?â
âDonât worry.
Iâm fine,â Aldric assured, smiling.
When he noticed Nathanâs stern look, Aldric realized that Nathan wasnât concerned about his health.
Rather, Nathan was anxious that he might err during the blood test, potentially wasting the babiesâ blood.
Aldric was overwhelmed by a mix of emotions.
Aldricâs smile disappeared as he gazed at the frail Colby in Nathanâs arms, who struggled to keep his eyes open.
With a serious look, Aldric said, âI have been running tests for years.
I could do them with my eyes closed or even in my sleep, and I assure you, there will be no errors! Please trust me.
I will take the lives of these two babies very seriously.
â
Nathan had known Aldric for many years and trusted him deeply.
He was the most dependable person to perform the blood virus test.
Both babies were taken into the lab, and Aldric concentrated fully, dedicating his full attention to the task.