FreeGoodNovelChapter 0658 Chapter 0658 Serenity took her treflecting on Alden's words, but eventually, she drew a deep breath and answered: "When would we leave?" "It would have to be today," Alden replied.
Serenity sighed deeply, trying to steady herself.
"Will you cwith us?" she asked hesitantly.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAlden paused, unsure of how to respond. Finally, he said, "Let's talk to the others first." Taking her hand, he guided her back inside the safe house.
Inside, the conversation had already shifted toward agreeing on the plan. Maximus had reluctantly decided that sending his children away was the safest option. The thought of Leonardo being free, scheming, and capable of such vile acts terrified him. As much as it broke his heart to separate from them, their safety cfirst. Frederick also cto terms with the decision. Valerie was too vulnerable to help, and Serenity was in immediate danger. While he dreaded the inevitable fallout with Marcus over John's departure, keeping the children safe had to take precedence. With them out of harm's way, Frederick could focus entirely on Valerie and getting Marcus out of jail.
Peter, too, had cto his own conclusions. He knew Alden was the only one capable of protecting the children during this delicate time. Though he hadn't mentioned it to his son yet, Peter had no doubt that Alden would rise to the challenge.
When Serenity and Alden entered the room, everyone's gaze immediately fell on them-particularly on their joined hands. Maximus noticed it first, and a surge of heat tushed through him. Though he kept quiet, he resolved to revisit the subject with Alden later.
Frederick broke the silence. "Serenity, what have you decided?" Caught off guard by the direct question, Serenity hesitated, then replied, "There's no choice. I have to leave with my siblings." She looked down, her voice trembling. "I wanted to say goodbye to my mother, but Alden explained that leaving the house would risk exposing our location and put everyone in danger. I can't do that.” Maximus stepped forward, his expression filled with both sorrow and determination. “Serenity," he said softly, I hate that you're being put through this. I know we're asking too much of you, but I can't risk anything happening to you. I've seen what Leonardo is capable of, and I know he won't hesitate to harm you. I'd rather you hatefor this decision than let something happen to you that I can't fix." He pulled his daughter into a strong embrace, kissing her forehead gently.
"You're strong, my girl, and I know where that strength comes from." "From you?" Serenity asked, her voice muffled against his chest.
Maximus smiled faintly. "Well, yes, but also from your mother. If anyone is strong, it's her. I promise we'll take care of her and make sure she's safe. You just need to focus on yourself and your siblings. Think of this as an extended vacation-just without a return date for now." Serenity hugged him tightly, tears streaming down her face She had often dreamed of leaving home, but now that it was a necessity, the reality of saying goodbye to her parents cut deep.
While Serenity clung to her father, Peter motioned for Alden to join him outside. They stepped into the garden, where Peter broke the silence.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmChapter 0658 "Alden, you know I'm proud of you, right?" Peter began.
"Yes, father. But why are you saying this now?" "You're my only son, and I know I can count on you to do anything I ask. Isn't that true?" "Father, I don't like this. What are you about to ask me?" "I want you to go with them. Take Ethan and go with Serenity and the others. If anyone can protect those kids, it's you."
Alden's brow furrowed in protest. "But, father, I can barely managen looking after Ethan. How can you askto take care of all of them?"
"I trust you, Alden," Peter said firmly. "You've stood by my side for years, helping build everything we have. You've proven yourself tand tagain. Now I'm asking you to take a break from all of this. The problems we your face here-they're not yours to solve. They're mine. You weren't even born when this mess began. This isn't war. You and Ethan will be safer where you're going."
"Father..." Alden hesitated, his mind racing. "What will happen to all of our allfou operations? Who will handle them?" "You can oversee them remotely. You know that," Peter replied. "But right now, this is what's best for you and Ethan." "And what about you?" "I'll face my past and present," Peter said with a grim determination.
Alden looked at him, his concern deepening. "And Celeste? What will you do about her?"
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