My Love Until the Last Goodbye (Mary and Maximus) novel Chapter 1018

As everyone gathered in their spots for a big family photo, Marcus was holding little Albert, playing with him, blowing raspberries on his belly, making him squirm with laughter.

If there was one thing about Marcus, it was that he was an exemplary father. He played with his kids without caring what anyone thought. He didn’t mind if his clothes got covered in milk or drool. With John and Albert, he was rougher—teasing them, tossing them in the air, tickling them, making them fly like airplanes. But with Caroline, he was gentle and tender, kissing her with devotion, holding her close, and playing more softly.

“What’s the plan?” Frederick asked, walking up to Marcus.

“The plan is in Hesperia, my dear Frederick…” Marcus said, still playing with his son.

“Are you absolutely sure?” Frederick asked.

“Yes… There’s nothing left for us here, and in Hesperia, everything is going full speed ahead.”

“Well then… Hesperia it is!” Frederick said with a big smile.

“Hey! Hey! Who said I needed you?” Marcus cut in sharply.

“What?” Frederick replied, caught off guard.

“My friend, it’s time for you to live your own life. I’m a big boy now, in case you haven’t noticed,” Marcus said sarcastically.

Frederick gave him a curious look.

“What do you mean by that?” he asked, still intrigued.

“Well, I was waiting for you to tell me, but you never did. Do you really think I haven’t noticed that you and Camille have something going on?” Marcus asked seriously.

Frederick instantly blushed, looking nervous.

“Marcus… I…” Frederick murmured.

“Frederick, you’ve been my most loyal and faithful companion. More than that, you’ve been my friend—my best friend.

“I can even say, with complete sincerity, that you’ve been like the father life took away from me. But now, it’s time for you to live your own life. You’re not a young man anymore, and if life has placed Camille in your path, what more could you ask for?

“I have to admit, I never imagined you two—well, you know—ending up together, especially given that woman’s personality. But I’m happy for you. You and I both really needed someone in our lives.

“You know something?”

“Tell me,” Frederick replied, still a little embarrassed.

“Do you know why it’s been so hard for me to let go of Serenity?” Marcus asked with a nostalgic tone.