The Rebirth of My Dead Billionaire Wife

Chapter 113

The Kane estate was alive with energy, the family bustling around to prepare for Zayden’s welcome-home celebration. After the scare at the hospital, everyone was relieved to have him back, and Victoria insisted on hosting a party to honor his recovery.

Alessia had thrown herself into the planning, using it as a distraction from her personal turmoil. She worked with her mother and Zane to make sure every detail was perfect. The dining room was transformed into a cozy yet elegant space, adorned with soft, warm lighting and fresh bouquets of white lilies and baby’s breath, Zayden’s favorites. Strings of fairy lights framed the windows, casting a golden glow that added to the celebratory atmosphere.

The kitchen was a hive of activity, the air thick with the aroma of rich, home-cooked dishes. Zane had taken charge of the grill, preparing perfectly seared steaks and herb-marinated chicken. Victoria, always the heart of the family, made her famous lasagna and a tray of buttery garlic bread that filled the room with its tantalizing scent. Alessia had added her own touch with a vibrant Caprese salad, the ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze.

The dessert table was a highlight: a multi-layered chocolate cake stood proudly in the center, surrounded by mini fruit tarts, macarons, and Victoria’s homemade tiramisu.

“This is perfect,” Alessia murmured, adjusting the placement of the silverware as she looked over the table. “Dad’s going to love it.”

Zane walked in, wiping his hands on a towel. “He better. I spent hours marinating that chicken.”

Alessia smirked. “And I spent hours convincing Mom not to make a second lasagna. I think we’ve all earned a pat on the back.”

Zayden was wheeled into the room by Victoria, who refused to let anyone else help him. He looked healthier already, though still a little pale. His face broke into a wide smile when he saw the decorations and smelled the food.

“What’s all this?” he asked, his voice touched with emotion.

“A celebration,” Victoria said, her eyes glistening. “You scared us, Zayden. We’re just so happy to have you home.”

Zayden chuckled softly. “You didn’t have to go through all this trouble, but… I won’t say no to a good meal.”

The family laughed, and everyone took turns hugging him. Zane patted his shoulder. “We’re just glad you’re okay, Dad. That’s all that matters.”

As everyone settled into their seats and began serving themselves, Alessia couldn’t ignore the empty chair next to hers. Christian hadn’t shown up. She had texted him earlier, reminding him about the party, but his only reply had been a curt, “Can’t make it. Have a good time.”

The knot in her stomach tightened as Zane leaned over, noticing her discomfort. “Where’s Christian?” he asked, his voice low enough not to draw attention.

“He said he’s busy,” Alessia replied, her tone clipped. She stabbed at her salad with her fork, trying to focus on anything but the questions swirling in her mind.

Zane raised an eyebrow. “Busy? Too busy to be here for you? For Dad?”

Alessia sighed, glancing around to make sure no one else was listening. “It’s… complicated.”

Zane’s expression darkened. “Complicated? Alessia, if something’s wrong, you need to tell me.”

“It’s fine,” she said quickly, forcing a smile. “Let’s just focus on Dad tonight.”