Chapter 458: No Longer Lost
"Now that my son has returned, it’s finally time to throw a baby shower," Alekis announced, a broad smile lighting up his face.
"Father is right," Fiona added, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "We’ve been delaying Layla’s baby shower, waiting for Lucius to come back. I’ve even picked out names for the baby! Layla, you’re going to love it." She turned to Lucius, teasing lightly, "And everything you missed in these four months? You’ll have to make up for it at the shower."
Roderick chimed in, grinning, "Well, I’ve already chosen gifts for the baby too."
Lucius looked at Layla, a hint of curiosity in his gaze. "You all have thought more than I have. What about the day after tomorrow? Does that work for you?"
Layla nodded. "That works perfectly for me."
Fiona, never missing an opportunity to assert her point, interjected, "You two know nothing about choosing an auspicious day. A baby shower should happen on a good day. I know someone who can recommend the perfect date."
Lucius raised an eyebrow. "I don’t really believe in superstitions, Fiona."
Alekis chuckled softly and leaned back. "I agree with Fiona. Remember when we consulted the priest for Roderick’s birth? Have you forgotten that?"
Layla glanced between them, a small smile on her lips. "Well, if the elders believe in it, I’m fine with going along. It’s their way of ensuring everything is smooth for the baby."
"Alright, then," Lucius said, finally conceding with a smile. His gaze shifted to Roderick. "By the way... why did you and Ivy delay your wedding?"
"You weren’t here, Uncle. You’ll be my best man. How am I supposed to have a wedding without you?" Roderick muttered.
"Our Rick has grown into quite a mature man," Alekis said, laughing lightly as he looked at his grandson.
"Go to your room and rest for a while. And tell Layla to rest too, she’s still planning to go to work," Alekis added.
"Your daughter-in-law can be stubborn," he continued, turning to Lucius, "but now that I’m back, I’m not letting her go to the office until she gives birth." Lucius’s hand gently clasped Layla’s, anchoring her to the moment.
As they stood, Lucius addressed Roderick with quiet authority. "Rick, decide on your marriage as soon as possible. No more delays."
"Of course, Uncle," Roderick replied obediently, though a small smile played on his lips.
Lucius and Layla made their way into their room, the one adjoining the garden, a space Layla had especially chosen after returning from her parents’ home.
As Lucius closed the door behind him, his gaze immediately drifted across the room. The soft, vibrant colors that adorned the walls gave the chamber a warm, tender glow. His eyes lingered on the photographs of babies framed neatly above the dresser, and a smile tugged at his lips. The sight filled him with a sense of serenity he hadn’t realized he missed.
Layla eased herself onto the mattress, one hand instinctively resting against the curve of her belly. Her eyes softened as she looked at him.
"Don’t you want to see the others? They missed you just as much as I did," she asked gently. Then her expression brightened a little. "Oh, and did Aiden tell you? He’s seeing Sylvia now."
Lucius chuckled, lowering himself to sit beside her. "Yes, he told me about a month ago. Honestly, I was shocked. Aiden spent years running away from her, yet here he is, finally choosing her. But I’m glad. He deserves a true companion, and it seems he’s found that in her." His laughter was light, filled with genuine joy.
Layla’s lips curved into a faint smile. "Sylvia visits me every other day to check on how I’m doing. You wouldn’t believe how much she’s changed, Lucius. I really think it’s time you forgave her completely, for everything that happened before."
"Of course," Lucius replied softly, his tone carrying both sincerity and ease. "The past belongs behind us."
For a moment, silence lingered, filled only by the faint rustle of the garden leaves against the window. Then Lucius tilted his head. "What about your parents? You stayed with them for nearly two months. I imagine your mother must have wanted you to remain longer, at least until I returned."
Layla’s expression fell slightly, her voice quiet when she spoke. "You’re right... but then my grandmother passed away."
Lucius blinked in surprise, his brows knitting. "What? Why didn’t you tell me?"
"I... I didn’t know how to bring it up," she murmured, lowering her gaze. "The truth is, I never felt any real attachment to her. I thought it wasn’t worth mentioning, not when it didn’t affect me deeply."
Lucius reached for her hand, clasping it warmly. "It’s all right," he reassured her with a squeeze. "You don’t need to explain."
Her face brightened a little as she continued, "Orabela has changed so much too, Lucius. It amazes me every time I see her. She’s become such a beautiful soul. Whenever she visits, she makes me happy, sometimes we even go shopping together. And she’s helping Dad with his business now. I can’t tell you how proud I feel of her."
A genuine smile spread across Lucius’s face. "You gave her the chance to prove herself, and she chose to embrace it. That’s a gift not everyone would have given. It’s good to know your bond with your sister has healed."
He leaned back slightly, thoughtful. "Even Rick has grown into the man my brother always hoped he would become."
"So, everything has fallen right at their right places. And you, Lucius, you’re feeling absolutely fine, right? There’s no more worries, right?" Her hand moved to his cheek, her eyes reflecting her deep worry.
Lucius kissed her palm. "I’m no longer lost, Layla. I know who I am. I am a husband, a son, an uncle, a brother, a friend and most importantly, soon-to-be a father to my precious baby."
Before Layla could speak, they heard a knock.
"Madam, Miss Sylvia is here to see you," a maid announced from outside.
"Told you. Sylvia always visits me," Layla stated with a bright smile.