Chapter 194

Alex's father, David, sat at the spacious dining table, a warm cup of coffee in hand as he glanced out the large bay window in their Central Haven mansion. The city lights were just starting to illuminate the evening, casting a serene glow over the skyline. David marveled at how much the city had changed in the years since they had moved. Central Haven had grown into a vibrant hub where ability users and non-ability users coexisted, and it was a place filled with opportunities and calm—a city built for people like him and his wife, Sarah, who valued peace over all else.

As he took a sip of his coffee, Sarah entered the room, carefully arranging a bouquet of fresh flowers she'd picked up from the market earlier. She paused, glancing toward David, and smiled, her expression a mix of excitement and mild concern. "You're looking like a man waiting for something."

David chuckled, shaking his head. "You've caught me. I'm just thinking about Alex. It's been… how long now? Four years?"

Sarah nodded, her gaze drifting to the family photos on the wall. One picture, in particular, showed Alex from years ago, his smile easy and carefree. "Four years," she confirmed. "Back when he first decided to send us here. Do you remember? We didn't even have to ask; he just… he just bought the place and moved us here."

They both looked around the elegant living room, filled with tastefully selected furniture and decor, a mix of classic and modern styles that suited them perfectly. The mansion wasn't overly grand or flashy but was undeniably a sign of their son's success and generosity. In this home, they had everything they needed and more, all provided by the steady flow of funds Alex sent every month without fail.

David sighed, leaning back in his chair. "It's almost strange, the way things have turned out. I always thought he'd be here, working like the rest of us, building a steady life. But Alex… he's always been different. Do you think he's changed much? That fire he had… I hope it's still there."

Sarah placed a comforting hand on her husband's shoulder. "I think he has. Maybe even more than before. He's been out there in the world, working, discovering… doing things we probably can't even imagine."

They shared a quiet moment, both lost in thought. For David, there was an unspoken pride but also a tinge of worry. Alex was talented, yes, but the path he'd chosen… it was dangerous. They'd heard rumors about ability users and some intense incidents that had swept through the world in recent years. Alex had a way of finding trouble—or perhaps trouble had a way of finding him.

"I wonder…" Sarah's voice was soft, almost hesitant. "Should we tell him about Amilia?"

David frowned, looking at her with a mixture of caution and unease. "Amilia and her… friend?"

Sarah nodded, her face a mix of uncertainty and motherly protectiveness. Their daughter, Amilia, had fallen for an ability user—an exciting, risky romance that had made both parents worry for her safety. Though they supported her, there was an edge of fear beneath it all.

"She's been so happy," Sarah continued. "But… you know how Alex is. If he knew, he'd worry. He might even try to get involved."

David sighed, running a hand through his graying hair. "Maybe. But he's her big brother. I think he has a right to know… if he asks. We don't need to rush into it, though." He placed a hand over Sarah's. "Let's see how things go. Amilia's strong, and she's chosen her path. Just like Alex has."

Sarah managed a smile, nodding in agreement. "Alright. We'll let it be for now." She turned her gaze back to the family photo, her heart swelling with pride for both her children. They'd raised Alex and Amilia with a love for life and freedom, and she was proud to see them living with the same tenacity.

They sat in comfortable silence, occasionally sharing little anecdotes or updates about family friends who'd visited, or small tales of the city's current events. Though the world outside was turbulent, with political tensions and power struggles constantly shifting, Central Haven had somehow remained stable.

David often marveled at how well the city had handled its influx of ability users, creating a unique harmony. The government's policies here were strict but fair, allowing people to use their abilities in regulated spaces and for community enrichment. For someone like David, who had once feared that the rise of ability users would disrupt the world as they knew it, Central Haven had proven that peaceful coexistence was possible.

"Did you hear about the Phoenix Dominion?" David asked, glancing at Sarah. "They've been pushing for even stricter regulations on ability users, trying to impose international rules. It's got the whole United Council talking again."

Sarah chuckled softly, shaking her head. "They're always talking. But Central Haven is still setting the example. I wonder if Alex has kept up with it all? Or if he even cares."

David gave a rueful smile. "Knowing Alex, he's probably up to date on more than we know. He's always been observant, always a step ahead."

As they talked, the faint ring of the doorbell echoed through the hall. Sarah's face lit up instantly. "He's here!" She stood, her excitement undeniable.

David rose as well, unable to contain his own smile. They both hurried toward the door, ready to welcome their son back home. For now, any worries or concerns faded into the background, replaced by the joy of a long-awaited family reunion