My Love Until the Last Goodbye (Mary and Maximus) novel Chapter 921

"Ellie, what have we told you about letting us know when guests arrive?" Aria said in a firm yet gentle tone.

"Grandma Aria… This man is looking for my mom," Ellie said, clutching Aria’s hand and looking at her insistently.

"Well… not exactly. Actually, I’m looking for—" Maximus began, his gaze locking onto the woman standing before him.

"Yes?" Aria asked, slightly intrigued. "Who are you looking for, sir?"

"I’m looking for you. Are you Aria Fairchild?" Maximus asked, unsure of what else to say.

Even in her old age, the woman was undeniably beautiful. The locket’s photograph had helped him recognize her. She was no longer young, but there was still a timeless elegance in her features.

Yet, despite her beauty, Maximus noticed something else—her eyes were dull, her expression tired. She looked like a woman who had long since given up on happiness.

"My name is Maximus…" He was about to say Evans but chose instead, "Maximus Palmer."

Aria gasped, bringing both hands to her mouth.

"What’s wrong, Grandma? Why did you gasp?" Ellie asked, looking up at her in concern.

Aria composed herself quickly, offering the child a reassuring smile.

"It’s nothing, sweetheart! Nothing at all. Can you go find your mom and ask her to come watch the front desk for a moment?"

Ellie let go of her hand and nodded. "Okay, Grandma… I’ll be right back."

Maximus and Aria watched as the little girl ran off to the garden. When she was out of sight, Aria turned her full attention to him.

"You’re… Leonardo’s son?"

Maximus nodded. Words still failed him. He was nervous. He had no idea where to begin. But one thing was clear—this woman had recognized his surname immediately.

"Well… No matter how far I run, I always get found, don’t I?"

Her words took him by surprise.

"What do you mean by that?" he asked.

Aria walked toward a small sitting area near the entrance and motioned for him to follow.

"Your father… Leonardo spent years looking for me. He never understood that he didn’t owe me anything. I know he sent you to convince me, but I’m telling you now—I’m not going back. I have nothing to go back to."

"Why do you say that?"