"What just happened with Maximus was the end of something that should never have been. He came to me looking for answers about a DNA test. No matter how much I tried to deny it, he already knew the truth. I wanted to tell you, but I didn’t know how. Then everything spiraled out of control. Marcus, I
Maximus still hadn’t shaken off the feeling left by that beautiful dream. As he walked through the mansion’s halls, it was as if he were experiencing déjà vu or living in parallel dimensions. Though the mansion looked different, every step brought glimpses of his ex-wife’s silhouette and the faint s
“She didn’t hesitate when she ordered my father’s murder. She didn’t think about leaving Mary and her daughter without a husband or father. So why are you thinking about her? Do you still love her?” Alden snapped, losing what little patience he had left.“I don’t love that damn woman!” Maximus shout
Maximus felt drained; that brief conversation with his nephew had left him utterly exhausted."Alden, yesterday I read through the entire investigation. It pains me to see what the woman I once loved—the mother of my children—has become."He hesitated, staring out the large window. "I know you won’t
Marcus and Valerie returned to the house. She picked up the bouquet of flowers and her bag, then said, "I'm ready! We can go. This house holds so many beautiful memories, but the ones I want to keep are the ones we make together with our children."Marcus turned to look at her, his almond-colored ey
[Ushuaia, Argentina, 7 years ago]“Alden, I know you’re caught up in the buzz around here, but I don’t want you to join the force. You’ve got a gift, and you should make the most of it. I’d rather see you get into business. Your mom has been working at the factory for years, and while she’s still yo
Katherine had lived in the shadows for many years. After hearing the news of Peter's death, she had closed her heart and vowed never to love again. For reasons she never fully understood, Darius Richards had always reached out to offer her unconditional support, but she had always refused it. Today,
Theodore had been raised by a strict military father, which meant his education at the military academy was rigorous and disciplined. When the time came, he left the service and began working in private security. His excellent performance and discretion quickly caught the attention of the city’s eli
As soon as Maximus left the hospital room, Peter sank into his thoughts, trying to figure out what to do next. It was clear that his life had completely changed, and Maximus was right—whether he liked it or not, he was a father and a grandfather. And soon, he’d be a father again. There was also a wo
Peter had his eyes closed. His brother was still sitting next to him, curious about what he might be thinking. He didn’t want to pressure him, so he waited for him to speak."What do I do about Celeste?" Peter finally let out, his voice filled with worry."What? What do you mean?" Maximus asked, int
Two weeks had passed, and Peter still showed no interest in speaking to or seeing Maximus or Celeste. The hospital, which had once been filled with family and friends waiting outside his room, was now only visited by Alden—and occasionally, Marcus.Celeste tried to stay calm and positive, but in thi
"But he is right—your mother asked us to take care of your education and finances. We know you don’t want contact with your family, and if you stay in Valentia, you won’t just run into them—you’ll also be at risk from any enemies your grandfather may still have out there.""So you’re saying… I have
"Where the hell am I?" Lucius muttered, waking from his forced sleep."You’re in my house. And you better behave, because I’m not a very patient man. I promised to look after you, but your mother isn’t here anymore, so she won’t know if something happens to you," Anthony Moriarty said, his piercing
And then—"Daddy!"Maurice bolted toward him, his little feet barely touching the ground.After a few steps, Maximus crouched down to scoop up his youngest son, who looked noticeably bigger than the last time he had seen him."My boy, how are you, my love?""Daddy! Daddy! We’re back!""Yes, my boy,
After leaving the hospital, Maximus drove home, the only thing on his mind being the need to have his family together again. Things with Peter hadn’t gone well, but at least this time, he had something to keep him grounded—his family and Diana.Diana hadn’t accompanied him home; she had stayed behin
Throughout their conversation, Alden had asked his father multiple times if he wanted to see Celeste, but Peter refused every time. He even seemed irritated whenever her name was mentioned. However, whenever Alden spoke about his mother, there was a glimmer in Peter’s eyes—something Alden kept to hi
Celeste and Alden exchanged looks. They were the two closest people to Peter, yet neither of them knew how to handle this situation. A Peter who only remembered being in his twenties was something they hadn’t expected."Alden, go in. He’s your father, and I’m sure he’ll be happy to see a copy of him