Maximus managed to convince Alden to take him to see what remained of Alexia. A week had passed since the truth had come to light, and neither Maximus nor Marcus had visited the Complex, leaving Matthew Rice in charge once again. Meanwhile, Marcus and Valerie were taking some much-needed time to foc
“So, you understand me,” he continued. “I wasn’t sure if you would. I didn’t want to see you in this pitiful state, but now that I’m here, Alexia, you are truly hideous. All those surgeries ruined you. There was a ‘before’ and an ‘after’ with you, but what I see now? It’s a far cry from what you onc
After Valerie and Marcus left for Santorini, Camille quickly got John ready for school. Today, the little boy was particularly excited because his teacher had told the class that a new student would be joining them. The boy was coming from Slovenia, which fascinated John. Having recently moved to a
Peter returned home after dropping Ethan off at school. He had a particular fondness for enjoying his coffee in the garden, so when he chose this house, it had to accommodate that need. After arriving, he asked the butler to bring his breakfast to the garden. Meanwhile, Alden was getting ready to le
After his visit to Alexia and finally bidding farewell to the unrequited love of his youth, Maximus made the call to the boarding school where his children were staying.“Mr. Palmer, I must say I’m surprised by your decision. Has something happened to prompt this?”“Mrs. Caville, I’ve made my decisi
After the news broke, Maximus’s phone barely stopped ringing. People from various companies called to offer their condolences. While he remained attentive to his phone, waiting for the call from his driver who was bringing his children home, his mind was preoccupied with how he would deliver the new
“Why are you only telling us this now?” Laura asked, her voice trembling.“Because there wasn’t much else to do. I didn’t know how you would take it. Your mother was in terrible shape—she passed away shortly after arriving at the hospital. Her parents already have her ashes, and the funeral is today
“My children,” Maximus began, placing a hand on each of their shoulders. “Laura and I need to talk to you about something. Paul, I need you to pay close attention. Let’s go to my study, and we’ll discuss it there.”The small family made their way to the study and closed the door. Once inside, Maximu
"If you’re asking me if I’m scared—yeah. I’m terrified. This has never happened to me before… at least, not that I remember."When I was 25, I won’t lie to you—I wasn’t a saint. Not even close. Money and pleasure were my priorities. Back then, I had a toxic, messed up relationship with Alden’s mothe
"Tell me more about us," Peter said as he drove.Celeste stared at him, momentarily stunned. But she understood—he was trying to connect the missing pieces of his memory.So, she told him.She talked about everything they had lived through in Valentia and Slovenia. The memories brought out a mix of
On the way, just like Peter had said, he stopped by a bakery and bought a cheesecake with berries. Then, he picked up some strawberries and other berries—something to help Celeste get through the trip. As for himself, he only had coffee, but strangely, even though it was the same coffee he always dr
After that brief conversation, Peter wrapped his arms around Celeste. She could feel the warmth radiating from him as his strong embrace surrounded her. It had been months since she had felt anything like this.And yet, the man holding her now was nothing like the Peter she remembered. His warmth, h
This kiss was full of longing, desire, and passion—an intensity that, if left unchecked, could lead to something much more."Peter… you don’t remember me. You don’t even feel comfortable around me," she reminded him, trying to create some distance.Peter simply smiled, his expression calm—almost amu
Peter stood in the doorway, watching Celeste. He lingered there for a moment, exhausted from the long day. Slowly, he stepped inside, unsure of what to say or do. Luckily, she was asleep, lying on her side with her back to him.He moved closer, at first intending to wake her and have a long conversa
Theodore reappeared in Peter’s room shortly after, carrying a set of clothes. Peter looked at them and couldn’t believe the man’s terrible taste. Everything looked outdated—or at least, that was his impression. But he didn’t say anything."Alright, Theodore. Let’s go home."Dr. Wagner, upon seeing T
Valerie sat at the small garden table outside the house, the baby monitor resting on the table beside her. She sipped her coffee, lost in memories, replaying over and over the first time she and Marcus had spoken. She remembered that moment so vividly—Marcus had given her a coat and a little money t
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