Billionaire's Hidden Desire**

Chapter 44: A Warm Welcome

The sun had just begun to set, casting a golden hue over the cozy home that Lucien and Ivy had prepared for their new life together. Inside, the atmosphere was filled with a buzz of excitement and anticipation. Henry and Evelyn Blackwood, Lucien’s parents, along with Ivy’s best friend, Celeste, were all gathered in the living room, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the newest member of their family.

Henry and Evelyn sat on the plush sofa, their faces illuminated with smiles as they chatted about the upcoming arrival. Evelyn’s hands were clasped together in her lap, her eyes occasionally darting to the door with a look of impatient joy. Henry, more reserved but equally enthusiastic, had his arm around Evelyn, offering support and sharing in her excitement.

Celeste, who had arrived earlier in the day, was perched on the edge of a chair, her eyes scanning the room with a mix of nervousness and happiness. She had been a steadfast support for Ivy throughout the pregnancy and was thrilled to see her friend’s dream of having a family come true.

“So, how are you feeling about this whole new chapter?” Celeste asked Evelyn, her voice filled with curiosity.

Evelyn’s eyes sparkled with emotion. “Oh, I’m just overjoyed. It’s been a long wait, but seeing our son and Ivy finally bringing their baby home—there’s nothing like it. It feels like the beginning of something beautiful.”

Henry nodded in agreement. “We’ve been looking forward to this moment for months. It’s been a challenging journey, but today marks a new beginning for all of us.”

The sound of a car pulling up in the driveway signaled the arrival of Lucien and Ivy. The trio in the living room exchanged excited glances and quickly made their way to the front door, eager to welcome the new addition to the family.

Lucien and Ivy entered, their faces glowing with a mixture of relief and joy. Lucien carried the baby’s car seat with the utmost care, while Ivy walked beside him, her steps filled with a tender, protective grace.

Evelyn’s eyes welled up with tears as she saw her son and daughter-in-law. She reached out to embrace Ivy, her voice trembling with emotion. “Welcome home, Ivy. You look wonderful.”

Ivy returned the hug, her own eyes misting with tears. “Thank you, Evelyn. It’s so good to be home.”

Henry, with his characteristic warmth, shook Lucien’s hand firmly before pulling him into a hug. “Well done, son. We’re so proud of you.”

Lucien’s gratitude was evident in his smile. “Thanks, Dad. It means a lot to have you both here.”

Celeste stepped forward, her eyes softening as she looked at Ivy. “Congratulations, Ivy. She’s beautiful.”

Ivy smiled, her heart swelling with appreciation for her friend’s support. “Thank you, Mia. I’m so glad you’re here.”

Lucien carefully lifted the baby from the car seat, cradling her in his arms. He turned to the gathering, his eyes full of pride. “Everyone, meet our daughter.”

The room fell into a hushed silence as the baby was gently passed around for admiring glances and soft coos. Evelyn’s hands trembled slightly as she held her granddaughter for the first time, her heart full of a love she had been eagerly waiting to give.

“She’s absolutely precious,” Evelyn said, her voice thick with emotion. “Look at her tiny fingers and toes.”

Henry looked on with pride, his gaze shifting between his granddaughter and the proud parents. “You’ve both done an amazing job. She’s a beautiful baby.”

Celeste watched with a warm smile, her heart swelling with happiness for her friend. She stepped closer, gently reaching out to touch the baby’s hand. “She’s perfect, Ivy. You’ve created a little miracle.”

As the evening progressed, the family and close friend settled into a rhythm of gentle conversation and shared joy. Lucien and Ivy were surrounded by the love and support of those closest to them, and the sense of togetherness provided a soothing balm to the trials they had faced.

Dinner was a simple but heartfelt affair, with Evelyn insisting on preparing a special meal to celebrate the occasion. As they gathered around the table, the conversation flowed easily, punctuated by laughter and shared stories.

Lucien glanced around the table, his heart full as he looked at the people who meant the most to him. The challenges they had faced seemed distant now, replaced by the warmth of family and the joy of new beginnings.

“I can’t thank you all enough for being here,” Lucien said, raising his glass in a toast. “Your support has meant everything to us.”

“To new beginnings and family,” Evelyn added, her eyes shining with happiness.

“To new beginnings,” everyone echoed, their glasses clinking together in a harmonious celebration of the future.

As the evening drew to a close, Lucien and Ivy settled into their home with their daughter, the sense of peace and contentment enveloping them. Surrounded by the love and support of their family and friends, they were ready to embrace the new chapter of their lives.

The road ahead would undoubtedly have its challenges, but with their daughter in their arms and their loved ones by their side, Lucien and Ivy felt ready to face whatever came their way. The home that had once been a place of uncertainty was now a haven of love, filled with the promise of new beginnings and the enduring strength of family.