“Mommy.”
Max got out of the car, Anne’s small hand tucked inside his. Together, they walked over to Felicia and Luke.
“Morning, Luke,” Max said, his voice warm.
Luke crouched down to Anne’s level, offering her a soft smile. “Hi, Anne.” He reached into his pocket and handed her a little gift. “I hope you have a year filled with happiness.”
Anne took the present, her eyes lighting up. “Thank you, Uncle Luke.” Then she leaned forward and planted a kiss on his cheek, the innocence in her gesture making a few people smile.
Luke laughed and gently pinched her cheek, clearly delighted.
Anne turned and held the gift out to Felicia. “Mommy, can you hold this for me?”
Felicia accepted it with a smile. “Of course, sweetheart. I’ll keep it safe.”
“Anne, come on. Let’s go inside with Mommy,” Max said.
Anne immediately reached up for Felicia’s hand. “Mommy.”
Felicia gave Luke a nod. “Let’s all head in.”
Luke just nodded, eyes lingering a moment longer.
Grinning, Anne grabbed Max’s hand too, hopping along between her parents. She swung their arms with every step, giggling as they made their way toward the house.
A few paces behind, Luke watched them, eyes trailing over Felicia. His smile faded. He slowed down, letting distance grow between them.
Wyatt noticed as everyone exchanged greetings. He caught the look in Luke’s eye, the way he couldn’t quite hide the sadness.
“Luke.”
Luke straightened up and forced a smile. “Hey, Wyatt.”
Wyatt threw an arm around his shoulder. “You’re a tough guy to pin down lately. I barely see you anymore.”
Luke shrugged. “Work’s been intense.”
They chatted for a bit, then everyone drifted into the living room.
Miranda was at the hospital with Brysen, Rose was with her own family for the day, Brandon and Tatiana had gone to visit the Martins, and Max had brought his family to the Gilberts for the holiday.
Max, Luke and Wyatt went off to the sports court for a quick basketball game.
When Luke got tired, he plopped down on the sidelines. Wyatt came over and handed him a bottle of water.
Luke took it with a thankful nod. “Appreciate it.”
Wyatt flopped into the seat next to him. “Heard your aunt asked about you today. She’s set on introducing you to someone. Says you’re not getting any younger. Time to start thinking about settling down and all that.”
Luke laughed, a little self-mocking. “Is there an age when everyone just unlocks the matchmaking mode?”
Wyatt grinned. “It comes from a place of love, you know.”
Luke shook his head. “Work keeps me busy enough. I barely have time to think about myself, let alone meet someone.”
Wyatt leaned in. “Come on. Is it really the job? Or is there someone you can’t get out of your mind?”
Luke’s gaze dropped and he didn’t answer.
Wyatt’s tone softened. “Look, Luke. Sometimes, when you miss a chance with someone, there’s no getting it back. You’re not just living for yourself. You’ve got your family to think about too.”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Ugly Wife’s Stunning Comeback (Felicia and Max)
Can't believe it finally ended!So glad Jeremy and Luke have found their respective partners.Especially Jeremy! He's been with Felicia through thick and thin....
That was a ride!! Wil truly miss everything about this story, max felicia and all things in between ❣️...
Maxxx..the man he is becoming 🤣🫠 No, but seriously author, absolutely love everything you’re doing between max and Felicia..it’s certainly pulling a string in my ❤️...
Thanks you for the update...
When get new chapter...
Why are there no updates these days? Author, what is happening?...
Favor de actualizar...
That’s cheating don’t u think?? Only 3 chapters 🥺...
Max is the reddest flag to exist but their whole dynamic is kinda becoming cute and endearing to me😍 please update every day?!...
Take her back? Want to see her?? Donno about Felicia but I think I’m falling for this Max somehow🫠🙈pls update daily...