Chapter 51
**Chapter 51: Welcome Home p>
**Welcome Home p>
As Serena stepped into the grandeur of the Vander estate, an unexpected warmth enveloped her. It was a moment she had longed for, and the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. The entire family had gathered, their presence a
comforting reminder of the bonds that tied them together: Sterling, Celine, and even Silas, her twin brother.
A vibrant banner, fluttering gently in the breeze, was draped from the balcony on the second floor. It proclaimed, in bold letters: [Welcome Home, Serena. We love you.] The sight of it made her heart swell, a symbol of the love that awaited her.
The staff-maids, gardeners, drivers, and security personnel-lined the driveway, their heads bowed in respectful acknowledgment. The scene felt surreal, almost like a page out of a storybook.
“Welcome home, Miss Vander,” one of the maids said, her voice warm and inviting.
“We are so happy to finally meet you, Serena,” another added, her eyes sparkling with joy.
Xavier, ever the supportive friend, walked closely beside Serena as they made their way along the driveway. He leaned in, his voice barely above a whisper, “Whoa. This is just like those movies where the heiress returns to her grand estate p>
Serena raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “I didn’t even know you watched those kinds of movies, Xavier p>
“Not me! Alice did,” he replied, chuckling at the memory.
His enthusiasm was infectious, and the brightness in his gray eyes mirrored the excitement that bubbled within her. “I’m really glad I get to be the one to escort you home, to this new chapter of your life p>
Feeling a rush of gratitude, Serena turned to him, gently grasping his arm. “I’m happy too. Thank you, Xavier. Unbeknownst to you, you’ve brought me home p>
As she glanced at the familiar faces waiting for her, her heart fluttered with a mix of emotions. The pang of anxiety eased slightly as she realized how her life was about to transform.
Celine, her mother, rushed forward from the entrance, her arms outstretched. “Welcome, my daughter! We didn’t have the time to prepare a grand welcome party, but we did our best to make this moment special p>
“Welcome, Serena,” Silas chimed in, his arms wide open, ready for a hug.
Serena embraced him tightly, feeling the warmth of his brotherly affection wash over her. The comfort of his presence almost brought tears to her eyes.
“Brother,” she said with a smile, “This is my twin brother p>
“That’s right,” Silas replied with a playful grin. “And just so you know, I was born ten minutes before you. So, you should really call me ‘big brother p>
A laugh escaped her lips, lightening the atmosphere. Celine joined in, her laughter mingling with theirs.
“Gone are the days we would cry,” Celine said, her voice thick with emotion as she fought back tears. “Let’s focus on being happy today p>
At the entrance, Sterling stood proudly, holding a delightful bouquet and an enormous teddy bear. With a twinkle in his eye, he addressed Serena, “I know you’re all grown up now, but if you had been here with us all along, Princess, I would have filled your room with plushies, Barbies, and a playhouse p>
“Oh, he would have spoiled you rotten,” Celine remarked, a playful pout forming on her lips.
Serena’s gaze lingered on her father’s sparkling green eyes, filled with a deep yearning. Accepting the teddy bear, she smiled and said, “I do love hugging plushies, Dad p>
“Welcome home,” Sterling said, his voice ringing with sincerity, and the rest of her family echoed the sentiment, their voices harmonizing in a chorus of love.
Following the heartfelt greetings, her family eagerly introduced Serena to the household staff, each member a vital part of the estate’s heartbeat.
Veena, the chief housekeeper, had a warm smile that instantly put Serena at ease. Edgar, the family driver, stood proudly next to his son Seth, who was the second driver.
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Carmina, the cook, was known for her deus meals while Leslie and Tina, the maids, greeted Serena with friendly waves. The bodyguards, Clark and Milo, stood watchful, ready to ensure her safety.
“Remember, everyone,” Sterling addressed the staff, his tone serious yet affectionate. “Serena has been away for almost twenty-four years. I want to spoil her, give her everything she hasn’t been able to experience, including your unwavering service and loyalty. Let’s make her stay a pleasant one p>
“It’s wonderful to meet all of you,” Serena beamed, her heart swelling with gratitude.
After the introductions, her family led her and Xavier on a tour of the sprawling estate.
The Vander estate sprawled across over an acre of land, its beauty hidden behind meticulously manicured hedges and trees. The grand structure, with its pale stone walls and expansive glass windows, exuded elegance, while warm wooden accents added a touch of homey charm.
To the right of the main house, a massive garage wing stood, capable of housing more than twenty cars. It was a sight that left Serena in awe.
As they walked through the entrance hall, she was greeted by bright rooms bathed in natural light. The soft carpets muffled their footsteps, and the faint fragrance of lilies wafted through the air creating an inviting ambiance. Modern art adorned the walls, yet family photos and small, cherished items made the house feel lived-in and warm.
The living room, painted in soft earth tones, featured large, comfortable sofas and a gentle fireplace that radiated coziness. The kitchen was a modern marvel, boasting marbl
Countertops and high-ende appliances, with personal touches like baskets of fresh fruit and handwritten notes on the fridge that spoke of a real family life thriving within these walls.
Large sliding doors opened up to a serene backyard, where an infinity pool glistened under the sun, a shaded patio offered soft seating, and a garden burst with vibrant, well-tended flowers. Despite its size and luxury, the estate felt tranquil and welcoming—a home crafted not to impress, but to provide a sanctuary for the family.
Their final destination was Serena’s room.
At the door, Celine’s voice trembled with emotion. “We bought this mansion ten years ago, but this room has always been yours p>
She turned to Sterling and Silas, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “We always hoped we’d find you p>
Serena’s room was a bright, airy space, with expansive windows that invited the sunlight to dance across the floor. A cozy sitting area was nestled by the glass, adorned with soft chairs and a low table, perfect for quiet moments. Lush green plants were strategically placed around the room, infusing it with a fresh, calming energy.
As she stood there, taking in her surroundings, Serena felt an overwhelming sense of belonging wash over her. This was more than just a room; it was a promise of new beginnings, a space where she could finally be herself again.