Chapter 84-85-86-87-88-89-90

Chapter 84 – A Burning Passion

It was a quiet night at Alex and Charlize's house in Los Angeles. The lights were low, and the mood was relaxing. Charlize was in the living room, barefoot, wearing a light dress that fell perfectly over her curves. She was absentmindedly scrolling through her cell phone, smiling as she saw some old photos of the two of them together at events.

Alex entered the room without making a sound, observing his wife. He noticed how relaxed she seemed, but there was something in her posture that aroused an uncontrollable desire in him.

"Charlize," he called in his deep, almost hoarse voice.

She looked at him over her shoulder, with a smile.

"What is it, my love?"

He approached slowly, with a predatory look that made Charlize feel a shiver go up her spine. Before she could say anything else, Alex grabbed her firmly by the waist, pulling her against him.

"You know how irresistible you are, don't you?"

Charlize laughed, but her laughter was cut short when Alex gently pressed her against the wall.

"Alex, what are you—"

"Shhh," he murmured, bringing his lips close to her ear.

He lightly licked her earlobe, knowing exactly how much that drove her crazy. Charlize let out a shaky sigh, her hands automatically gripping Alex's strong arms.

"You know that's unfair," she said in a shaky voice.

"Maybe," he replied, with a mischievous smile. "But I love making you like this."

As he continued licking and blowing lightly on her ear, his hands began to explore Charlize's body. One of them slowly went down her back until he found her butt, which he squeezed tightly, eliciting a moan of surprise and pleasure from Charlize.

"Alex—" she murmured, closing her eyes.

"I love the way you say my name."

He pulled away just enough to look into her eyes. Her eyes were filled with desire, and her breathing was heavy.

"You're so beautiful, Charlize. Every time I look at you, it feels like the first time."

She smiled, still panting.

"And you're a dangerous man, Alex Rider. You know exactly what you're doing."

"I've always known."

Charlize slid her hands down his chest, feeling the firm muscles beneath his shirt.

"Are you just going to keep playing with me, or do you have something in mind?"

"I think you know the answer to that."

He picked her up easily, and Charlize laughed in surprise. Alex carried her across the room, kissing her neck and teasing her with light bites.

When they reached the couch, he laid her down carefully, but didn't lose control of the situation. He held her arms above her head, keeping her immobile.

— Now you're at my mercy — he teased, kissing her intensely.

Charlize reciprocated with equal passion, making it clear that she was as involved as he was.

After the intense moment, they lay together on the couch, Charlize nestled in Alex's arms.

— You know how to make me tired, Rider — she said, laughing softly.

— It's my job, Theron.

They were silent for a moment, just enjoying each other's company.

— You know — Charlize began — I never imagined that I would be here, with you, living this. It feels like a dream sometimes.

Alex smiled, kissing the top of her head.

— It's not a dream, Charlize. It's reality. And I'll do everything I can to keep it that way.

She smiled, feeling completely safe and loved in his arms.

Chapter 85 – Meeting the Theron Family

It was a sunny day in Los Angeles, with blue skies and few clouds. Charlize had been planning the meeting for weeks, insisting that she wanted Alex to meet her mother, Gerda, and other close family members. Although she rarely talked about her personal life with her relatives, this time was different. Charlize was completely in love with Alex and wanted him to be a part of every aspect of her life.

Alex, on the other hand, was calm but attentive. He knew that family gatherings were important to Charlize, but his experience in tense situations prepared him for anything.

"Are you nervous?" Charlize asked, looking at him as they drove to her mother's house in Beverly Hills.

"Not really. I just want to make a good impression."

"Don't worry. My mother will love you."

She smiled and placed her hand over his, which was resting on the center console of the car.

"You're wonderful, Alex. She'll notice that in seconds."

When they arrived, Charlize stopped the car in front of the beautiful house with its well-kept garden. Gerda Theron was already at the door, waving enthusiastically.

"There she is," Charlize said with a smile, quickly getting out of the car.

Alex got out too, adjusting his posture automatically. He was dressed elegantly but discreetly, in a light blue button-down shirt and black pants.

"Mommy!" Charlize exclaimed, hugging Gerda tightly.

"Honey, you look beautiful as always," Gerda replied with a smile, before looking at Alex. "And this is the famous Alex, I imagine."

"It's me, Mrs. Theron. It's a pleasure to meet you," Alex said, extending his hand to shake hers.

Gerda ignored his hand and pulled him into a warm hug.

"No formalities, Alex. If you're important to Charlize, you're important to me too." Alex was a little surprised, but smiled back.

"Thank you, ma'am."

"You can call me Gerda," she corrected, winking at him.

They entered the house, which was elegantly decorated but still had a cozy feel. In the dining room, other relatives were gathered, all curious to meet Alex.

During lunch, Alex answered the questions that inevitably arose about his life with patience and charm. He spoke briefly about his time in the British Army, without going into too much detail.

"So you're British," Charlize's cousin commented. "Your accent gives it away, but you seem so… calm for someone who's been in action."

Alex smiled.

"I think I've learned to stay calm in any situation. It helps a lot."

Gerda watched the exchange with a satisfied smile. She noticed how Alex treated Charlize with respect and affection, always attentive to her needs.

"You seem like a very centered man, Alex," she said.

"I try to be, Gerda." And Charlize helps me a lot with that.

Charlize smiled and squeezed his hand under the table.

After lunch, Gerda called Alex to the porch to talk while Charlize was busy talking to one of her cousins.

"Alex, I need to be honest with you," Gerda began, looking directly at him.

"Of course, Gerda."

"Charlize is everything to me. She's been through a lot in her life, and she's always been strong, but as a mother, I always worry."

Alex nodded, understanding the gravity of her words.

"I completely understand, and I want you to know that I would never do anything to hurt you. Charlize is the most incredible woman I've ever met."

Gerda smiled, relaxing a little.

"I believe in you, Alex. You seem different from anyone she's brought home before… not that she's brought many."

Alex laughed lightly, enjoying the honest moment.

— I'm so grateful she chose me, Gerda. She's special.

As the day came to a close, Alex and Charlize said goodbye to everyone. Gerda hugged Alex once more, this time with an even warmer smile.

— I hope you come back often, Alex. It was a pleasure meeting you.

— It was my pleasure, Gerda. I hope to see you soon.

In the car, as they drove back, Charlize looked at Alex with a mischievous smile.

— So, what did you think of my family?

— I really liked it. Your mother is fantastic.

— She likes you too, Alex. I think you earned an extra point with me.

He laughed, looking at her out of the corner of his eye.

— Just one point? I thought you deserved at least two.

— Maybe three — Charlize joked, leaning in to kiss him on the cheek.

Alex smiled, feeling more integrated into Charlize's life than ever before. He knew this was just the beginning of something even deeper and more special.

Chapter 86 – Thinking About Adoption

The sun shone through the large windows of Alex and Charlize's Los Angeles home. The modern yet cozy space reflected the life they had built together. That morning, they were sitting in the living room. Charlize was wrapped in a blanket, holding a cup of hot tea, while Alex sat next to her, reading a magazine about travel and adventure.

"Alex," Charlize began softly, breaking the silence.

"Yes, love?" he replied, looking away from the magazine and toward her.

She hesitated for a moment, her eyes fixed on the cup in her hands.

"Have you ever thought about what it would be like to have another child?"

Alex blinked, surprised by the question. He put the magazine aside, leaning slightly closer to her.

"I think it would be amazing. Why are you thinking about it now?"

Charlize sighed, her eyes shining with a mix of excitement and vulnerability.

— I love my kids, and you've been wonderful with them, Alex. They adore you. But I've been feeling this longing… this emptiness. I wish I could share this with you, you know? To have something that was ours.

Alex smiled softly and placed a hand on her face, caressing her cheek.

"Charlize, your kids are already a part of me. I love them like they were my own. But I understand what you're saying."

She leaned into his touch, clearly relieved.

"The problem is, at 46, my chances of getting pregnant are pretty much zero."

Alex thought for a moment, mulling over her words.

"What if we adopted?"

Alex remembered the first time he met Jackson and August. They had planned a quiet evening, and Charlize had introduced him to the two of them carefully, wanting the introduction to be timely.

Jackson, with his natural curiosity, asked a lot of questions.

"Are you like a real soldier?" he asked, his eyes shining with excitement.

Alex laughed, sitting down on the couch next to him.

"Yes, I am. But I'm retired now, so I don't fight anymore."

"Do you know how to use swords?"

"A little, but not as much as in the stories you read."

Jackson looked fascinated, while August, more reserved, watched from a distance. Alex noticed and picked up a children's book from the shelf.

"Do you like stories?" he asked her.

She nodded shyly.

"How about I read one to you?"

She smiled and ran to sit next to him. That night, Alex won them both over. Ever since, he was like a father figure to them, someone they trusted and looked to for advice or fun.

"Do you really think we could adopt?" Charlize asked, coming back to the present.

"Why not?" Alex replied, holding her hand. "There are so many children who need a home. I would love to raise one with you." She looked at him with a mixture of surprise and admiration.

"You'd be an amazing father, Alex."

"And you're already an amazing mother, Charlize. We just need to take this next step together."

She nodded slowly, a smile forming on her lips.

"I think we can start researching. I don't know exactly how the process works here in the States, but I want to do it."

Alex squeezed her hand.

"Let's do this together."

Over the next few days, Alex and Charlize immersed themselves in the world of adoption. They met with experts, researched agencies, and discussed the possibilities of domestic and international adoption.

"There are so many options, Alex," Charlize said as she scanned a pamphlet about international adoption.

"That's true. But the most important thing is that we find a child who needs us, no matter where they come from."

They also talked to Jackson and August about the subject.

"Would you like to have a brother or sister?" — Charlize asked one afternoon, while everyone was gathered in the living room.

Jackson was the first to answer.

"That would be nice. But I'll still be the oldest, right?"

Alex laughed.

"Always, Jackson."

August thought for a moment before smiling.

"I'd love to have a little sister."

Charlize looked at Alex with a smile that said it all.

A few weeks later, they had chosen an agency and started the process.

"It's a long road, but it's worth it," Charlize said as she filled out an application.

Alex stood next to her, checking the necessary documents.

"We've both faced challenges before. This will just be one more."

She smiled at him, feeling grateful to have him by her side.

Charlize knew that despite their unique careers and lifestyles, they shared something rare and special: a deep love and a desire to raise a family together. For Alex, this decision was more than just starting a family; it was a new chapter in his life, a way to build something permanent and meaningful with the woman he loved.

As they finished filling out the paperwork, Alex held Charlize's hand and looked into her eyes.

"We'll find our son or daughter, Charlize. And we'll give them the best home we can."

She squeezed his hand and nodded, her eyes shining with excitement.

"We will, Alex. I'm sure of it."

The journey was just beginning, but they both knew it would be a life-changing experience. Together, they were ready to face any challenge and create something beautiful: a new life filled with love and hope.

Chapter 87 – The Adoption Rumors

The days following the start of the adoption process were hectic for Alex and Charlize. Despite trying to keep everything private, the media attention on the couple was intense, especially with Charlize being one of the most famous actresses in Hollywood and Alex now often referred to as "the mysterious British knight".

On Tuesday morning, while Charlize was in the kitchen making coffee, Alex came in with the newspaper in his hands and a serious expression on his face. He placed the paper on the table, pointing to the headline that was on the front page of a gossip column.

"Charlize Theron and her mysterious partner plan to adopt a child?"

"I guess our secret isn't so secret anymore," Alex said, crossing his arms.

Charlize placed her coffee cup on the counter and gave a short laugh.

"Oh, Alex, what did you expect? They haven't left us alone since we started dating."

He sighed, running a hand through his hair.

— It's just… This shouldn't be a spectacle. It's something private. I don't want the child to see this as something fabricated by the media.

Charlize moved closer to him, wrapping her arms around Alex's waist.

"I know you're worried, but we're in this together. No matter what anyone says, it's our decision."

He relaxed under her touch and kissed the top of her head.

"You're right. But this means we need to be even more careful about what we say and do in public."

In the following days, rumors about the possible adoption began to spread. News sites, TV shows, and even social media were awash with speculation. Paparazzi stepped up their presence around the couple's home and the places they frequented.

"Charlize and Alex expanding their family?"

"The star and the mysterious British knight ready to adopt!"

"Hollywood power couple starts adoption process?"

Charlize tried to ignore the news, but Alex could tell she was getting slightly uncomfortable.

"Charlize," Alex said one night as they sat on the couch. "This is getting to you, isn't it?"

She hesitated before answering.

"It's not that I didn't expect it. It's been a part of my life for years. But when it involves something as personal as adoption, it's hard not to feel invaded."

Alex took her hand, intertwining their fingers.

"We'll get through this together. At the end of the day, what matters is what we're doing. We're creating something beautiful."

She smiled, squeezing his hand.

"You're right."

Although the media was in a frenzy, the public reaction was largely positive. Fans of Charlize and even admirers of Alex, who was still an enigma to many, expressed support for the couple's decision.

"Charlize has always been so generous and compassionate. I'm sure she'll be a wonderful mother again."

"Who is this guy with her? He seems like a real protector."

"If this is true, congratulations to them! More children deserve a loving home."

However, there were also skeptical and critical comments, as with any news story involving public figures.

"Is this genuine or just another marketing ploy?"

"This child will grow up surrounded by cameras. It's not fair."

Alex wasn't the type to follow social media, but Charlize, despite being experienced, couldn't help but check the comments.

"People can be so cruel, Alex," she said, frustrated, as she read some of the negative posts.

"Charlize, you know how the internet is. People speak without thinking, especially when they don't have the whole story."

She sighed, agreeing. "I think I'm overreacting. I shouldn't let this get to me."

Alex hugged her, kissing her forehead. "We're doing this for the right reason. That's all that matters."

After days of rumors and speculation, Charlize decided it would be best to address the issue publicly. She agreed to participate in an interview on a TV show known for being respectful and focused. Alex, who always avoided the spotlight, agreed not to appear, but he fully supported her decision.

"I'll be watching," he said before she left for the taping.

During the interview, Charlize spoke openly about her desire to expand her family and how much Alex supported her.

"I can't go into too much detail right now, but what I can say is that this is something very personal to us. We are committed to providing love and a home for a child who needs it."

The host tried to tease out more information about Alex, but Charlize skillfully deflected.

"He prefers to keep his privacy, and I completely respect that."

The interview was a success, bringing a more human and authentic tone to the story.

When Charlize returned home, Alex was waiting for her in the living room, with a glass of wine for each of them.

"How was it?" he asked, handing her one of the glasses.

"It was good. I hope it helps take the focus off the speculation."

"I'm sure it did. You're amazing."

Charlize smiled, sitting down next to him on the couch.

"And you're amazing for supporting me through all of this."

Alex raised his glass in a toast.

"To us, to our family, and to the future we're building together."

They toasted, feeling closer than ever, ready to face whatever challenges came with the decision to adopt. The media could say whatever they wanted, but Alex and Charlize knew they were making the right choice.

Chapter 88 – Love at First Sight

After months of bureaucracy and visits to adoption agencies, the big day finally arrived. Alex and Charlize were nervous, but also excited. They both knew that this moment would be life-changing for them.

They had been informed that the child was a two-year-old girl named Maya, with curious brown eyes and a shy smile that charmed everyone around her.

That morning, Charlize wore a simple but elegant outfit, while Alex opted for something casual but neat. They were both aware of the importance of this meeting, not only for them, but especially for Maya.

"Are you ready?" Alex asked, holding Charlize's hand as they got into the car that would take them to the children's shelter.

"I'm nervous, but yes, I'm ready. And you?" she replied, squeezing his hand.

"I've never been so sure of anything in my entire life." When they arrived at the venue, they were greeted by a social worker named Linda, a friendly, middle-aged woman who seemed to understand the mix of anxiety and excitement in the couple's eyes.

"Maya is a very special little girl," Linda said as she led them down a sunlit hallway. "She's shy at first, but I'm sure she'll warm up to you guys quickly."

Charlize took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves, while Alex gently squeezed her hand to reassure her. When they reached a room filled with colorful toys and childish drawings on the walls, there was Maya.

She was sitting on the floor, playing with a stuffed bear. Her curly brown hair fell over her forehead, and her eyes were bright with a mix of curiosity and wariness as she noticed the two strangers in the room.

"Hello, Maya," Charlize said softly, kneeling down to be at the girl's level.

Maya looked at her suspiciously at first, but when she saw Charlize's warm smile, she relaxed a little.

Alex stepped forward, holding a small doll he had brought as a gift.

"Hi, Maya. I'm Alex, and this is Charlize. We brought you something," he said, holding out the doll.

Maya hesitated for a moment before carefully taking the doll. When her eyes met Alex's, a small smile appeared on her face.

Charlize felt a rush of emotion as she saw the immediate connection between Alex and the little girl.

"She's beautiful," Charlize whispered to Alex, who nodded with a smile.

"Yes, she is."

For the next hour, Alex and Charlize played with Maya, trying to make her feel at ease. Charlize picked up some building blocks and began to build a small tower, while Alex helped Maya fit the pieces together.

"You're doing great, Maya," Alex said excitedly when the little girl managed to fit a block into place.

Maya let out a shy laugh, and Charlize felt her heart melt.

"She's already opening up to us," Charlize said quietly, looking at Alex.

"Yes. I think she knows we want the best for her."

Before they left, Maya looked at Charlize and said in a small voice:

"Will you come back?"

Charlize could barely hold back her tears.

"Yes, my love. We'll be back soon. I promise."

A few days later, it was time to introduce Maya to Charlize's sons, Jackson and Augustus. Alex was particularly curious to see how the two would react to the idea of ​​having a little sister.

Charlize called the two boys into the living room, where Maya was playing.

"Jackson, Augustus, this is Maya," Charlize said, carefully watching their reactions.

Jackson, being the oldest, was the first to approach. He looked at Maya curiously before smiling.

"Hi, Maya." I'm Jackson. Do you want to play with me?

Maya looked at him, a little hesitant, but Charlize encouraged her gently.

"Go ahead, honey. Jackson is very kind."

Maya took Jackson's hand and began to follow her to a corner where some toys were. Augustus, who had a more playful spirit, quickly joined them, showing Maya how to use a remote control car.

Charlize and Alex watched from afar, with smiles on their faces.

"They're going to get along great," Alex said, putting his arm around Charlize.

"Yeah, it looks like Maya is part of the family now."

That night, while Alex and Charlize were in the living room, she laid her head on his shoulder and sighed.

"I can't believe how much my life has changed in the last few years. If someone had told me I'd be here, with you, adopting a daughter..."

"I'd say fate knew what it was doing," Alex replied, kissing the top of her head.

— Maya is perfect. I already love her so much.

— Me too, Alex said. — And it's amazing how Jackson and Augustus have taken this so well. They're great kids.

— You have something to do with it. And they look up to you, Alex.

He chuckled softly.

"Well, I hope I can be a good example for them and for Maya too."

Charlize lifted her head to look at him.

"You already are."

Alex pulled her into a soft kiss, feeling more complete than he ever thought possible.

With Maya now officially part of the family, Alex and Charlize began to plan what the future would look like. Alex, with his experience in security, began helping Charlize organize her NGO trips, while also dedicating himself to being a present father.

They knew there would be challenges, especially with the constant media attention, but they were ready to face them together. After all, their love for each other and for little Maya was what mattered most.

As Maya slept in the next room, Charlize held Alex's hand and whispered,

"We're building something beautiful here."

Alex smiled, squeezing her hand.

— And we're just getting started.

Chapter 89 – The First Time He Heard "Daddy"

The morning began like so many others in Alex and Charlize's house in Los Angeles. The sun was shining through the windows, and the sound of children's laughter echoed through the house. Maya was on the living room floor, playing with her building blocks, while Jackson and Augustus played video games on the couch. Alex was in the kitchen making pancakes, while Charlize made coffee.

"Daddy, I want more milk!" Maya shouted from across the room.

Alex froze for a second, the spatula in his hand stopping in midair. He looked at Charlize, who was equally surprised, her coffee cup stopping on its way to her mouth.

"What did she say?" Alex asked quietly, turning to Charlize with a look of astonishment and a smile beginning to appear.

Charlize just nodded, her eyes shining with excitement.

"I think she said 'daddy.'

Maya stood up and ran over to Alex, holding the empty glass of milk and holding it out to him.

"Daddy, more milk, please!"

This time, Alex didn't hesitate. He smiled from ear to ear, kneeling down to be at Maya's level.

"Did you call me daddy?" he asked softly.

Maya nodded, her curls bouncing as she smiled.

"You're my daddy now, right?"

Alex felt his heart clench. He pulled her into a tight hug, feeling her small arms around his neck.

"Yes, Maya. I'm your daddy now and always will be."

Charlize watched the scene with tears streaming down her face, too emotional to speak. Jackson and Augustus, who had stopped the game upon hearing the interaction, were also smiling.

"Hey, looks like you have a new fan, Alex," Jackson joked.

Alex looked at him, still holding Maya.

"Looks like you do.

Later that day, as Charlize was reading a book to Maya in the living room, the little girl suddenly turned to her and said,

"Mommy, I like that story."

Charlize stopped reading, her eyes wide.

"What did you say, honey?"

"Mommy," Maya repeated with a smile. "You're my mommy, right?"

Charlize put down the book and pulled Maya into a hug, kissing the top of her head.

"Yes, my love. I'm your mommy."

Alex, who was just entering the room at that moment, stopped when he heard the exchange. He met Charlize's gaze, who was visibly moved. He walked over to them and knelt down next to the couch.

"Looks like we're officially mommy and daddy now, huh?"

Charlize nodded, wiping away her tears as she laughed.

"Yes, looks like it."

Maya looked at the two of them, confused.

— Are you crying?

Charlize smiled and caressed Maya's face.

— We're happy, my love. So happy.

Evening came, and the whole family was gathered for dinner. Maya was sitting between Jackson and Augustus, swinging her legs as she ate a slice of pizza.

— Jack, can you pass me the juice? — she asked, looking at her older brother.

— Sure, here you go — Jackson replied, handing her the glass.

Maya smiled at him.

— Thank you, brother Jack.

Jackson almost spat out the juice he was drinking. He looked at Augustus, who looked equally surprised.

— What did you call me? — Jackson asked, leaning closer to her.

— Brother Jack. You and brother Gus are my brothers, right? — Maya explained as if it was obvious.

Jackson and Augustus exchanged glances before smiling widely.

— Yes, we are your siblings, for sure — Augustus said, ruffling Maya's hair.

"Welcome to the club, little sister," Jackson added, raising his hand for a high-five, which Maya returned enthusiastically.

Charlize and Alex watched the interaction from the head of the table, exchanging looks full of love and pride.

"Our family is complete now, don't you think?" Charlize asked, holding Alex's hand under the table.

"Yes, it's perfect," Alex replied, squeezing her hand.

After the kids went to bed, Alex and Charlize sat on the porch, enjoying the night breeze.

"Today was a special day," Alex said, looking up at the stars.

"It really was. I knew this moment would come, but hearing Maya call us mommy and daddy… it was more special than I could have imagined."

Alex looked at her, his expression soft and full of affection.

"You're an amazing mother, Charlize." Maya is lucky to have you.

Charlize smiled, leaning forward to rest her head on his shoulder.

"And she's so lucky to have you as a father."

They were silent for a moment, enjoying the stillness of the night and the feeling that everything was in its right place.

"I think we did a good job today, Daddy Alex," Charlize joked, giving him a gentle shove.

"I agree, Mommy Charlize. Our team is unbeatable."

They laughed together, knowing that their love for each other and their children was what made it all possible.

Chapter 90 – The Passing Years

The morning sun softly illuminated Alex and Charlize's spacious Malibu home. It was a house full of history, its walls adorned with photographs that told the story of their lives: moments of travel, laughter, and now, young faces of grandchildren who filled the family with pride.

Alex, now with gray hair and a slower walk, was in the kitchen making coffee. His movements still had a touch of military precision, even if the vigor of youth had diminished. He wore a simple shirt and jeans, comfortable in the peaceful life they had built together.

Charlize appeared in the kitchen, as elegant as ever, even in the simplicity of a casual dress. Although the wrinkles on her face revealed the years, her beauty and charm remained untouched. She carried a stack of old photo albums that she intended to organize.

"Did you sleep well, love?" Alex asked, handing her a cup of coffee.

— Yes, although Augustus called me late at night to tell me about his new debut. She's so excited! — Charlize replied, laughing.

Augustus, who had followed in her mother's footsteps, was now a renowned actress, winning awards and acclaim all over the world. Alex couldn't contain his pride whenever he spoke of her, although he still lightly mocked her choices of roles when they were "very artistic" films.

"She definitely inherited your talent," Alex said, sitting down next to her.

"And your stubbornness," Charlize replied with a smile.

It was a special Saturday. Jackson, now a military intelligence officer, was on leave and had brought his children to visit their grandparents. Maya, who was in her final year of college studying International Relations, had also taken advantage of the weekend to be home.

"Good morning!" Jackson appeared in the kitchen, followed by his two young children, Emma and Max.

"Look who's here!" — Alex opened his arms, and his grandchildren ran to hug him. — How are my two little spies?

— Mommy said we're training to be better than her! — Max replied with a wide smile.

Charlize laughed as Emma showed her a drawing she had made.

— You two are already better — Charlize said, giving each of them a kiss on the forehead.

Maya arrived soon after, holding a book on international politics. She had the same sparkle in her eyes that Charlize had in her youth, combining intelligence and a sense of purpose that Alex had always admired.

— Good morning, family! — Maya greeted, placing the book on the table.

— Don't you get tired of studying, Maya? — Jackson joked, pouring himself a cup of coffee.

— Not when I want to be the best diplomat this country has ever seen — Maya replied with a confident smile.

— That's my girl — Alex said, filling the plate with pancakes for her.

After breakfast, Alex led Jackson out into the backyard, where the waves of the Pacific gently crashed against the rocks.

"How's work going?" Alex asked, shoving his hands in his pockets.

"Intense, as always. But it's rewarding to know I'm making a difference," Jackson replied, looking out at the horizon.

"That's what matters. Doing what's right." Alex paused, watching his son. "I'm proud of you, Jackson."

Jackson smiled.

"I'm just following the example you set. You and Mom always taught us to fight for what we believe in."

Alex put a hand on his daughter's shoulder.

"You have your own path, and you're walking it very well."

While Alex talked to Jackson, Charlize and Maya were in the living room flipping through photo albums.

"Look at this, Maya. You were so little here!" Charlize pointed to a photo of Maya with Alex, taken shortly after the adoption.

Maya laughed.

— I vaguely remember that day. Dad was trying to teach me how to ride a bike, but I think I just wanted to eat ice cream.

Charlize smiled, her eyes welling up.

— You brought so much joy into our lives, Maya. I can't tell you how grateful I am that we found you.

Maya took her mother's hand.

— And I'm grateful to have you. I wouldn't be who I am today without you.

They continued looking at the photos, reminiscing about special moments, until Maya asked:

— Mom, do you think I can really make a difference in the world as a diplomat?

Charlize smiled and squeezed her hand.

— You already make a difference, Maya. And with your heart and determination, I know you can achieve anything you want.

That evening, the whole family gathered on the porch to watch the sunset. Augustus video-chatted from New York, excited about preparing for the premiere of his new film.

— I miss you guys so much! — she said.

— Us too, honey — Charlize replied.

— When are you going to bring your nephews to visit New York? — Augustus asked Jackson.

— As soon as you promise us that you will sign autographs for them — Jackson laughed.

Everyone laughed, and Augustus promised to book a special tour for them on his next visit.

As the call ended, Maya leaned over to Alex and Charlize.

"Do you realize what an incredible family you've created?"

Alex looked at Charlize and smiled before answering.

"It wasn't easy, but it was worth every moment."

Charlize nodded, resting her head on his shoulder.

"And the best is yet to come."

They sat in silence, watching the colors of the sky change as the sun disappeared over the horizon. Life was different now, quieter, but still full of love and purpose. And for Alex and Charlize, that was all that mattered.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

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