My Love Until the Last Goodbye (Mary and Maximus) novel Chapter 986

Being in the park with his now-adult daughter brought back so many memories. He thought about her early interactions with her mother. He remembered how hard it had been to earn Valerie’s trust, how difficult it had been just to get her to let him near Serenity. His wife had been strong, independent, juggling work, school, and motherhood all on her own.

He remembered the first time Valerie had no choice but to ask for his help. She had a university exam to take, and Camille had to be at her daughters’ school. She had no one to leave Serenity with. And so, she turned to the least likely but only available person—him.

Marcus chuckled at the memory. That day, he had a date lined up with a woman who had promised to take him beyond the stars. But in the end, he had to cancel.

Because when Valerie had shown up, determined to leave Serenity in his care, he knew he had no way out. Back then, she had been tough, cold. There was no affection in her eyes—only doubt. But she had no other option.

["Valerie… But I don’t take care of kids, let alone good little girls. Do you see where I am?"

"I have an exam I can’t postpone anymore, and my afternoon got complicated. You always said that if I ever needed anything, I could ask you, right? Well, I need you to watch my daughter for an hour and a half. If I finish my exam earlier, even better—I’ll come get her as soon as I’m done."

"Valerie, I don’t even know how to change a diaper. If I offered to help, it was financially. Besides, I have a date—"

"Hmm? I’m only asking you to watch her for an hour and a half. Your date is obviously after work—I know you well enough to know you wouldn’t go out during office hours. And as for the diapers, Frederick can help you. He knows how."

"Valerie! Don’t take advantage!"

"I’m not! It’s just a favor! Please, take care of Serene. She’s already asleep, which means before you know it, I’ll be back, and you’ll be on your date."

"An hour and a half, Valerie. That’s all you get."

"Thank you! Thank you! You’re the best! You’ll barely even notice she’s here!"]