The Arrangement Factor (ARRANGEMENT SERIES #1)

Chapter 78

Alex's POV

Today was the day Mia was set to be released from the hospital. Sarah and I had planned a surprise for them at Daniel's place, where Mia be staying.

Mom and Dad were already at Daniel's, and together Sarah and I decided to pick up Mia and Dan from the hospital. Mia was overjoyed at the prospect of finally leaving her hospital room.

Upon reaching, Sarah rushed to Mia, embracing her tightly. "Sarah, I can't breathe, and I'm still bruised," Mia said, returning the hug and refusing to let go.

Amid laughter, we brought them home. As Mia and Daniel approached the door, the house remained dark. Upon opening the door, we all shouted, "Welcome back!" and released confetti over both of them, even for Dan, who also was returning home after a month.

The atmosphere was festive, and everyone enjoying themselves. Sarah and I had an additional surprise for them. I nodded to Sarah, and she unveiled it.

"Mia, surprise." Mia glanced at the basket Sarah held and eagerly opened it.

Her face lit up, and she hugged Sarah, placing the basket down. "Sarah, thank you so much. How did you know I would love this?" Mia exclaimed with excitement.

"Actually, Alex thought it would be a great companion for you," Sarah revealed, though she was the mastermind behind the idea, graciously deflecting the credit.

"Of course he did," Dan chimed in, and I smirked. "You did that on purpose, right?" he raised an eyebrow at me, and I just smirked back.

Mia looked between us, taking the puppy out of the basket and moving towards Dan. "Don't you like dogs, Daniel?" she asked.

Daniel hesitated, not wanting to distance himself from Mia, as he couldn't let people know that the great Daniel Ashford wasn't entirely comfortable around animals, especially dogs and cats.

Yes, I did it on purpose. I love getting him into trouble, and since it's for Mia, he can't refuse. I smirked.

"If you don't like dogs I can give it back to Sarah," Mia said sadly pouting at Dan. Still holding the puppy in her arms not wanting to let go.

"No, baby we can keep it. I-I don't hate them I just will get used to it. But he stays out of my office. Okay?" Dan said and Mia smiled so wide that and lunged on him still holding the puppy.

Daniel held them both, uncomfortable.

I chuckled at his discomfort, "**Cough** whipped **cough**."

He shot me a death glare upon hearing me, and I just continued smirking. However, Sarah caught onto my act and playfully slapped my shoulder, giving me a warning glare that said, 'Behave.'

I love my family, and I will always protect each and every one of them.

***

It's been almost two months since Mia and Sarah were kidnapped. They're both making progress—Sarah no longer experiences nightmares during the day and is getting comfortable being alone for a while. However, she still harbors fears at night and in unfamiliar places. I'm confident that we'll work through it together, and she'll overcome these fears soon.

August holds a special place in my heart, marking the month when I first laid eyes on my Little Dove and the month of our marriage. I've decided to express my love to Sarah during this month full of anniversaries. Balancing work and planning, especially considering all she's been through, remains a concern.

Returning from the office, I found Sarah searching our room.

"Hey Dove, what are you looking for?" I have a hunch but keep it to myself for now.