My Love Until the Last Goodbye by Alut

2/2 Chapter 992 Chapter 992 +25 BONUS Maximus looked distressed, unable to shake the thought of losing his son. Just imagining Paul leaving his side was enough to break his heart.

"I need to talk to Lucius and Laura..." he muttered, voicing his thoughts.

"Lucius? Wait-wasn't he... missing?" Serenity asked, surprised.

Memories of their first meeting resurfaced, sending a chill down her spine.

"I found him. I know it's a shock for you, but don't worry he won't cnear you. He knows he's done a lot of harm, and he understands that his actions were wrong. He just wants to see his siblings." "I know he hurt you, and I'm not excusing him. But under the worst influences, anyone can make terrible mistakes," Maximus said, watching Serenity's reaction.

Maximus had spoken briefly with Lucius about Serenity. His son had made it clear that he had no intention of trying to reconnect with her. He understood the damage he had caused and knew it would be hypocritical to try to form a bond with someone who was, essentially, a stranger "Maximus, I'm sorry for my reaction, but Lucius and I..." Serenity hesitated, feeling conflicted.

"I understand, sweetheart. I'm not asking you to consider a relationship with him. He knows that, too, and he's not asking for one. He's only here for a few days and then heading back to New Zealand—his life is there." Maximus observed his daughter carefully before adding, "Believe it or not, he has a girlfriend. Her nis Amanda. She's a rather curious and bold young woman. Honestly, I think she's the one with the stronger personality in their relationship." "Maximus..." Serenity whispered, unsure how to react.

"It's okay, sweetheart. I don't want to make you uncomfortable. I know what my son has done, and I'm not going to justify it. We all have our own burdens to carry." "Honestly, just knowing where he is, that he's doing well, and that he's studying is enough for me. Plus, there's someone keeping him in check-someone who enforces rules. That person has helped soften that arrogant and rebellious streak that Leonardo and Frank encouraged in him." Serenity sighed. "Maximus, you really had a lot to get off your chest, didn't you?" Maximus let out a tired chuckle. "Both you and Lucius will always weigh on me. You're my children, and God, how I wish I could turn back tand have you both from the start. It's not that life deniedthat chance with Lucius-I was the one who denied it myself. And in your case... if anyone is to blame, it's me.” "I don't think you should dwell on the past so much," Serenity said gently. "Life gave us the chance to talk, to get to know each other, to share whatever twe have ahead. I can see how much this weighs on you-not just for Paul, not just for Lucius, but fortoo.

"But we all reach an age when we have to fly. Lucius and I have already reached that point. Right now, your fo... should be on Paul. He's a good kid, and you and Pierre need to figure out the best way to handle what's coming.' Maximus chuckled again, shaking his head. "As much as it painsto admit it, if I have to thank anyone for raising such a responsible and mature daughter, it's that awful father of yours." Serenity laughed. “It's funny-I have three dads now, and each one is completely different. But I appreciate that. You're all unique, but in sways, you're also similar. And I have to admit... I miss the old Peter. He was serious and gruff, but I liked him." 1/2 acter 992 +25 BONUS "So, you had a favorite dad?" Maximus teased.

"Not exactly! It's just... Peter now surprisessometimes. He's more relaxed, more easygoing. Even m Geleste finds it strange to see him this way. Losing his memories... it's like we're seeing a completely different person." "I always admired that about my brother," Maximus admitted sincerely.

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"You're more serious, but I like that about you. You're a good father, Maximus. I know you feel guilty for not being there for your kids earlier, but you couldn't help it. Leonardo kept you tied to the company. But despite everything, your children do value the tyou spend with them. Just look at Laura-she treasures your presence. That alone proves you're a great dad. "I love Marcus. He's a good man-sometimes a little strict, but he's always givenfreedom. I probably shouldn't say this, but a lot of who I am, I owe to him. And I know that a lot of who my siblings are... is a reflection of what you've taught them.

"So, you don't have anything to fear.

As long as you speak with reason and from the heart, things will turn out fine. Just choose your words carefully with Paul. You cannot feel O.

guilty. You shouldn't. As you said yourself, you only found out a year ago. It's not right for you to carry the burden of someone who's no longer here." Maximus smirked. "Hey! I'm supposed to be the mature one here, not you!" Serenity grinned playfully. "What can I say? Sometimes I have my moments." mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLliIofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1