My Love Until the Last Goodbye (Mary and Maximus)

After the wonderful surprise orchestrated by Laura and Serenity, Matthew took a seat, and Serenity continued her speech. Maximus had a lump in his throat-this man, who had been a guiding figure in his life since his youth, the one who had taught him more about life than even his own father, was back by his side.

"Dad, Mom..." Serenity looked at Valerie and Marcus, who hadn't taken their eyes off her. "I know how important family is. You gave me a home full of love and warmth. My dad always encouraged my curiosity, and now, I will follow his example as we start our new life in Hesperia. I know that whenever we need advice, you'll be right there for us."

Valerie and Marcus smiled, listening attentively-until she mentioned Hesperia. That was when confusion took over. Serenity immediately noticed their reaction.

"Yes, Dad, Mom... Alden, Ethan, and I are moving to Hesperia! So you won't be getting rid of us that easily." Serenity grinned.noveldrama

Marcus turned to his wife, unable to believe what he had just heard. But as his heart calmed, relief washed over him. He wouldn't be far from his little girl-or from his son-in-law. Though honestly, he was more invested in keeping Ethan close.

"Well, well... I don't want to drag this out any longer. I just want to say to everyone here—thank you. Thank you for being here, for staying until the end of this beautiful evening. This has been one of the best days of my life, and I hope there are many more like it to come."

She turned to Alden with a radiant smile.

"And now, my love, it's time for our first dance."

Alden took her hand and led her to the center of the dance floor. The music

started playing, and the soft notes of Die with a Smile filled the air as they began to dance.

Everyone watched in awe as the couple moved together, completely in sync— deeply, happily in love.

Alden leaned close and whispered in her ear:

"I love you."

As the song ended, applause, cheers, and shouts of joy erupted around them. Soon after, everyone joined them on the dance floor.

That's when Marcus seized the moment to dance with his daughter and get some clarification.

"Sweetheart, did I hear you right earlier?" he asked, still unsure if his ears had played tricks on him.

"Yes, Dad. You can thank Ethan for that he made a whole list of pros and cons about living in Hesperia. He even assured us that we'd be much happier near you. Since he practically lives with you, he said it would be a shame to separate him from John." Serenity smirked.

"Of course! Obviously that would be a shame! I always said we should adopt Ethan..." Marcus muttered, deep in thought.

"Dad!"

"I mean, obviously, his father comes in the package... But let's be serious-where exactly do you plan on living? Near us, I hope?"

"I love where we live now. Ethan originally wanted to move into Candoria Castle, but once we explained that it wasn't for sale, he started looking for something similar."

Marcus chuckled. "I'm sure you'll find the perfect place. My girl, you love keeping this old heart on edge..."

"No, Dad, it was just a surprise-we wanted to save the best for last. Alden did say that sometimes he might need to travel to Valentia for business, or wherever meetings take him, but never for more than a week."

"As long as you're in the same country as me, that's all I need. For once, that kid actually did something I approve of."

"Dad! Let's just enjoy the night. I'll be leaving soon..."

"I know! I know..."

Meanwhile, Alden was dancing with his mother, who was still in shock over the

news.

"Alden, my son, if you're going to the States, make sure to visit our friends in Argentina. Take Serenity and Ethan to see Patagonia."

"Mom, you know you can always visit our old home..."

"Do I look like want to do that? My

life is here now-well, in France. Nat

and I have our businesses here.

There's nothing left for me there, but you? You should show your family where you come from. I expect to see a picture of you all there one day."

"Of course, Mom. When the time is right, the four of us will visit Ushuaia and Patagonia."

"That's my boy! You know I'll miss you, but it's time for you to be the man of your family and take good care of them."

"I know."

Serenity then danced with Maximus, who, in just a few words, managed to express all his love for her.

"Serenity, I always knew this

moment would come. And I'm happy because you've found a love that is good and true. Be happy, my girl. Be free. And never give up on your dreams-whether that's

photography, economics girl. Be

whatever else you choose.

"My blue-eyed girl... You will always remind me of your grandmother. Just

remember, no matter what, you have a father here in Valentia, and I'll always be here for you."

"Thank you, Dad! You know I love you, right?"

"No. But I just found out..."

"I love you. And I always will. Whenever you want to visit, we'll welcome you with

open arms."

"Thank you, my love," Maximus said, pulling her into a tight embrace.

After another dance or two, Serenity had one last special dance to give to Peter, who was beaming with joy.

"Serene, I know you and Alden will have a long, happy life together. D love you like a daughter, and as my daughter-in-law-but mostly as my daughter. Today, it's official. You are my daughter now." '

"Thank you, Dad!"

"Just don't tell Marcus! You know how easily he gets worked up. To him, you're his princess, and he doesn't want any competition."

"Dad..."

"What can I say? I've known that man forever, and he still manages to surprise

me."

Serenity chuckled, then suddenly raised her brows and smirked. “Oh, by the way... I'm still waiting for an invitation to a wedding. Did she like it?"

"...What?" Peter blinked, confused.

"Oh, what do you think? The ring," Serenity said, raising her brows and subtly gesturing toward Celeste's hand.

Peter's face turned slightly pink. He looked down for a second, then back up with

a wide grin.

"What did you expect? I'm irresistible! You can't deny that..."

"You're such a flirt!" Serenity teased, hugging him.

"Thanks for keeping my secret."

"No problem. You know I love you, and I'd do anything for you."

"I love you too, my beautiful girl," Peter said, holding her close.