His Iris | ✓

Chapter 45

Iris POV

Family.

That word meant nothing to me. It seemed like an on and off relationship. Love and hate. Even after my mom left, I still tried to keep it together.

Turns out it would never be the same.

Now, sitting inside our penthouse with everyone surrounding us, a warm feeling made its way into my heart. Family was much more than it had been. Not just with the downfall of my own, but a new one that blossomed.

When we arrived, Xavier made sure that everyone gave me space to readjust to everything. All that I endured in the cells and captivity, as well as the hospital. It wasn't easy, but they knew it was the best they could do.

As much as I wanted to believe that I wouldn't break down crying, in moments like these, I would rather not assume. The warm and comforting hugs from my mother, tears forming in my real fathers eyes, I truly believed that this was the moment in which everything may be alright.

But then reality sets in and realization that I lost my child. Xavier already informed everyone to which I was thankful for since I didn't want to explain myself. It would end with a lot of distress and tears.

I'm thankful that no one brought it up, though Mom and Mary consoled me which helped.

Everyone talked amongst themselves while I took sight of Maria, Sophie, Martin, Mary, and Taylor all solemnly looking at the scene before them. I would love to believe that it was a heartwarming sight, but with my tears, maybe not.

The sense of comfort from those you love never fails to lighten you up. And in this very moment, it was all I needed. Away from all the chaos that had once happened, maybe this was the breakthrough I was waiting and hoping for. Even after it came with all this baggage, I'd like to believe it may have been for a reason.

"I'm sorry it took so long," Howard gave me a warm bear hug that made me laugh and cry at the same time. The look on his face when I arrived was one I would capture in a picture and frame it. He looked heartbroken, sad, happy, and fond of me.

"It's alright, Dad." The words naturally came out as he sighed in relief; his tense figure no longer present. My mother was seen tearing up on the side. She couldn't handle us meeting and forming a bond already, and neither could I.

I mean, it's not everyday that you find out your father was not your real father but his brother was instead. It is twisted but I wouldn't have it any other way. It's relieving to know that Sam is not my real father; he is an excuse of a man that I wouldn't want near me or anyone I love.

Xavier made sure of that as he took care of them while I was out in the hospital. I asked him multiple times about what he did but he never gave a direct answer until now. Apparently all three of them were put in confinement for the time being. They were all proven guilty since Xavier had sources and a bunch of evidence piled up against them. He made sure to take the matter into his own hands since Sam caused so much distress to us; to me.

Carley was fired immediately and sent off to a different confinement for taking part in the plan with Sam after all three of them got caught. She clearly showed her distaste and hatred towards me so it wasn't that hard for everyone to believe Xavier that she, as well as the others, were in on it.

I guess her plan to win Xavier over didn't work after all. What a shame.

Mathew's case went a bit differently. He's on trial because apparently Sam and Carley set him up for this. They made him believe he would get me in the end but that clearly didn't happen so now they don't know if he will also be put in confinement or be charged.