Echoes of Deciet (Book 1)

A Grateful Gathering

Thanksgiving had arrived, and the Anderson household was bustling with activity. AJ and Valerie had invited their extended family over for a festive feast, and Ellie couldn't contain her excitement, particularly about one thing – the pumpkin pie.

Carla and Samuel, Riley's parents, arrived with warm smiles and an assortment of dishes, eager to share this special day with their granddaughter. Leah and Eric, Valerie's parents, brought a beautifully baked turkey, a testament to their culinary skills. And last but not least, Robert, AJ's dad, arrived with a heartfelt smile, ready to enjoy the family gathering.

The dining table was laden with all the traditional Thanksgiving favorites: turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and a variety of casseroles. Ellie's eyes widened as she took in the delicious spread, but her focus remained squarely on the pumpkin pie sitting at the center of the dessert table.

"Mommy, can we have pumpkin pie now?" Ellie asked, her eyes pleading as she looked up at Valerie.

Valerie chuckled and ruffled Ellie's hair. "Not just yet, sweetheart. We have to eat our dinner first. It's a Thanksgiving tradition, you know."

Ellie pouted playfully, but she obediently filled her plate with a bit of everything. AJ gave her an encouraging nod as he carved slices of turkey for everyone.

As they sat around the table, holding hands and sharing what they were thankful for, AJ couldn't help but glance at the empty chair at the head of the table, where Riley would have sat. He silently thanked her for bringing Valerie and Ellie into his life.

With smiles, laughter, and the warmth of family, they enjoyed their Thanksgiving meal, knowing that they had so much to be grateful for – the past, the present, and the promise of a future together.

AJ couldn't resist Ellie's puppy-dog eyes any longer. After ensuring that she'd cleaned her plate, he leaned down and whispered, "Alright, Ellie, but just a small piece, okay? Don't tell your mom." He winked and then slipped her a slice of pumpkin pie, complete with a dollop of whipped cream.

Ellie's eyes sparkled with delight as she eagerly dug into her slice of pie. She savored each bite, the sweet and spicy flavors dancing on her taste buds. Everyone at the table exchanged amused glances, aware of AJ's secret indulgence for his daughter.

Valerie chuckled and shook her head. "AJ, you're spoiling her."

AJ grinned, his eyes full of fatherly pride. "Well, it's Thanksgiving. A little indulgence won't hurt."

As they continued to enjoy the pie and share stories, AJ couldn't help but feel immense gratitude for the family gathered around him. Thanksgiving had always been a time for reflection, and this year, he was more thankful than ever for the love and support that surrounded him.

After their hearty Thanksgiving meal, the family gathered in the cozy living room, turning on the television to watch the Thanksgiving parade. Ellie sat on the floor, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the colorful floats, giant balloons, and marching bands making their way through the bustling streets of New York City.

Carla and Samuel settled onto the couch, content smiles on their faces as they relished the family time. Leah and Eric, Valerie's parents, were equally engaged in the parade, their initial concerns about AJ fading as they saw how happy their daughter and granddaughter were.

Robert, AJ's father, leaned back in his chair, contentedly sipping a cup of coffee and occasionally offering a witty comment about the parade.

As the family watched the festivities, they shared laughter, stories, and the warmth of togetherness. It was a Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and the joy of being surrounded by family, making cherished memories that would last a lifetime.