Aristia's revelation left the entire room in stunned silence. Her calm demeanor was a sharp contrast with the shock the family members gathered felt.
The adults exchanged puzzled glances, still grappling with the unexpected disclosure. Everyone turned to Wilson and Catherine for an explanation but Aristia gestured for them to sit down.
"Please, take your seats. I will explain."
And explain, she did.
"... That is how I built The Vanilla Courtyard." She ended.
"You're really the owner of The Vanilla Courtyard?" Alistair asked slowly.
Aristia nodded calmly. "Yes, I'm AE." Her voice was steady, though she could sense the confusion and curiosity swirling around her.
Edgar stepped forward, his expression filled with amazement and concern, like he couldn't wrap his head around it. "Aristia... why didn't you tell us sooner?"
"I wanted it to be a surprise," Aristia replied her grandfather simply after a pause, meeting his gaze with sincerity even though she was lying.
