STORM - (Intersex)

CHAPTER 7

TYLER

The night of the gala has finally arrived.

Earlier today, I spent some fun hours with Bailey and Jade getting haircuts, their lively company making the day fly by. Afterward, we joined Fran and Lee at the batting cages, laughing and competing spiritedly. Clara and Nat were swamped with work, so much that Clara missed our usual lunch, but it was understandable given the big night ahead.

After our sports outing, while the girls attended to their final beauty touches, Jade, Bailey, and I picked up our suits. Now, we're all gathered at Clara's house, eagerly waiting for the grand reveal downstairs. One by one, the ladies descend the staircase, each looking stunning in their unique way, and then, finally, Clara appears. She looks breathtakingly different, her hair now dyed jet black, enhancing her striking resemblance to Anna's hair.

"You look extraordinary," I manage to say, my voice filled with genuine awe.

"You look very handsomely beautiful," she responds, her eyes twinkling with appreciation.

"Thank you," I reply, taking her hand as we make our way to the cars waiting outside.

Arriving at the gala, the grandeur of the venue strikes me immediately. The building, resembling a palace, is adorned with a red carpet and flanked by guards in sleek black attire. As we enter, the interior takes my breath away—marble floors, exquisite art pieces lining the walls, and strategically placed unique sculptures creating an atmosphere of opulence and artistry. With Clara's hand in mine, we walk through the crowd, catching occasional stares and whispers.

"It's the first time I've had a date for this thing. Don't worry," Clara whispers, her smile briefly softening her otherwise authoritative demeanour.

"Is that my beautiful niece?!"

A vibrant woman with flowing dark hair and an elegant black gown approaches us with open arms. She embraces Clara warmly, her energy infectious. Following her is a man whose presence is equally commanding. He stands as tall as me with similarly strong features. When he hugs Clara, there's a familial warmth that's unmistakable. It's only when Bailey steps up next to him that I realize the resemblance—they look almost like twins.

"Woah, you look exactly like your dad!" I exclaim, struck by the uncanny resemblance between Bailey and her father. They both chuckle, sharing a knowing glance.

"She wishes she looked like me," he teases, rolling his eyes playfully.

"No, thank you," Bailey retorts, only to be pulled into a headlock as her dad laughs. "I'm joking—let go, Dad, please!" He releases her, and she playfully shoves him, though he stands firm. We all share a laugh at their spirited interaction.

"This is my aunt, Morticia Chelten, and her husband, my uncle, Matthew Andrews."

"So, is this the 'baby daddy' of the little one?" Morticia asks with a gentle, probing tone.

"Yes, she is," Clara responds, her smile broadening to reveal her dimples. I kiss her cheek and offer my hand to Morticia and Matthew.

"Tyler Brooks. It's a pleasure to meet you both," I say with a light chuckle.

Before they can respond, a squeal interrupts us, and a woman who bears a striking resemblance to both Morticia and Clara approaches swiftly, embracing Clara tightly. It's her mother, and the familial likeness is undeniable—they could be twins. Following her is a distinguished-looking man with a kind demeanour, his hair a mix of brown and grey, his physique robust.

After Clara's mother releases her from the embrace, she turns to me with a warm smile, placing a gentle hand on my cheek. "You take good care of this baby and my daughter. I can see it in your eyes. It's wonderful to finally meet you, Tyler," she says before pulling me into an unexpected hug. I respond in kind, feeling genuinely welcomed, even as I hear Clara muttering something under her breath.