Revenge is Best Served… After Reborn

"Sophie! Are you here to tattle on me to my brother again?" Harold burst into Gordon's room like a whirlwind.

Rick came up short, unable to keep pace with the little rascal. Standing in the doorway, he offered a sheepish apology, "Sir, I really couldn't hold him back."

"Brother! Don't listen to Sophie's nonsense! She was the one snoozing in the backyard!" Harold accused, turning to Sophie, "Come on, Sophie! Own up! Weren't you the one who slept through everything?"

When Harold blurted out her napping secret in front of Gordon, Sophie shot Gordon a helpless look, "Brother, I was just so exhausted, so..."

"So you decided to take a nap." Harold crossed his arms, feeling triumphant. "Really, Sophie? I've been busting my chops setting up your birthday, from cake picking to keeping the kitchen on track, and you sneak off for a nap? Do you know how many people from the Aldridge family are coming today? You're in big trouble now! My brother's definitely not going to side with you this time!"

"Brother..." Sophie clung to Gordon's sleeve, her voice soft and pleading.

Gordon's lips curled into a slight smile as he shot Rick a knowing glance. Rick caught on immediately. While Harold was still soaking in his perceived victory, Rick suddenly grabbed him by the ear, "Sorry, young master, but you're coming with me."

"Rick! Why are you pulling my ear? Go scold Sophie!" Harold protested, but Rick was unfazed, leading Harold out of the room by the ear.

smiling, asked, "Feeling better

the best, brother!" Sophie beamed, hugging Gordon's arm. "Brother, it's my birthday

"That jewelry set?"

"Not your style?"

pouted, a bit let

Seeing her disappointment, Gordon's smile deepened. "Your real gift is in

up, her eyes shining

"Really."

I love you!" Sophie exclaimed, throwing herself into Gordon's arms, then dashed out of the room

Watching her carefree retreat,

help but chuckle and shake his head. That girl just never seems to grow up. But that's okay... because he'd always be there to took

hurried back to her room, flinging the door open with anticipation. To her surprise, there was no gift on the table. Frustrated, she ran back

Swr