My Love Until the Last Goodbye (Mary and Maximus) novel Chapter 1077

The man saying goodbye felt every step grow heavier and heavier.

His family was here, and he was leaving them behind to go to a place far away.

This time, he wasn't leaving alone—but he would've much rather stayed. He knew that this family needed him… and he needed them just as much.

When it was Paul's turn, Lucius fought hard not to cry. Seeing him only reminded him of how much time had passed.

If he remembered right, his little brother had been about Maurice's age when they stopped seeing each other regularly.

Back then, Lucius had been Paul's hero—just like he was now for Maurice. But the difference was, Paul hadn't seen him come back until now.

Paul's situation wasn't easy. So, before letting any emotion take over, Lucius took a deep breath and smiled.

"Paul… Come here, little brother, come on. Listen… Whatever decision you make, I'll always support you.

"I agree with Dad—maybe you should give Pierre the benefit of the doubt. Maybe he just wants to know you, maybe he just wants to be close to the person who's his son. But that's something only you can figure out.

"I can't show up and give you my version of the story—you've got to find that truth yourself.

"Look at me… You know Dad and I never really got along, but now we've managed to get along, and it's been good for both of us. So give it time, and when you're ready, you'll know if you want to accept him or not."

"Thanks, Lucius. I know you mean well, but… I'm not ready to meet him. Not yet. I'm not ready to be around him either…"

"Don't worry. It took me years—who says it won't take time for you too?

"Just a little advice… You're still young, and I've noticed you've been a bit wild with the girls lately.

"You're a good-looking guy—probably got that from Mom—but you've gotta be careful with their hearts, okay?

"Never, and I mean never, mess with someone's feelings."

"I won't…"

"Promise?"

"I promise," Paul said, sincerely.

Though fate might still have a few surprises in store for him…

The two brothers hugged, and then Lucius went to say goodbye to Emma.

He hadn't known her long, but during his short time here, she had been there for his partner again and again—and Lucius would never forget that.

"Well… Emma, I know we don't know each other very well, but thank you—for welcoming me, and especially for helping Amanda feel at home."

"No need to thank me, kid! This is your home—you should come back to your family.

"All of them—crazy, old, grumpy, or a total mess like your father—they're your family, and you shouldn't be away from them.

"Please don't go hiding in that bubble of yours. Come back. This is your real family. And if you're worried about Amanda, then just bring her with you."

"Thanks for the advice, Emma… and for everything you've said. Believe me, I'm seriously thinking about it.

"I'll do my best to convince Judge Moriarty to let me come back here and be with my family."

"That'd be wonderful. Your father can't handle all this on his own. Sometimes, they push him to the limit.