Chapter 23; Marcus Arrival

Amiver woke up as if there were sounds outside. She didn't think much of it and assumed it might be some of Denmark's staff chatting. She went into the bathroom, washed her face, and brushed her teeth. When she was done, she came out of her room.

She found herself staring in surprise as she saw Marcus chatting with Denmark in the living room.

"There, it looks like your mom is awake now," Denmark said with a playful grin, his words accompanied by a warm chuckle.

Mommy, Mommy!" Marcus exclaimed, his arms outstretched for a hug.

Amiver's heart was so full of joy that tears started rolling down her cheeks. She went over to Marcus and gave him a big hug. "I missed you a lot, Marcus," she said softly, her voice filled with strong feelings.

Marcus hugged her back tightly and said, "I missed you too, Mom."

Amiver looked at Marcus and asked, "Did you have a good time with Grandpa and Grandma?

Marcus nodded with a big smile, "Yes, Mom, they're really nice. And Lola cooked my favorite pancit for lunch!"

Amiver's smile got even bigger, and she felt really happy hearing that. She looked at Denmark, feeling grateful and emotional. "Thank you, Denmark, for bringing him here."

Denmark smiled back at her and said, "He's my son too, Ami. I'll always take care of him."

Who brought him here?" she asked curiously as they stood a little away from Marcus.

Daddy Carlos brought him. I asked him to leave so we could have some time together," Denmark explained with a slight grin.

Amiver looked away when she heard that. She felt happy inside but didn't want to show it too much.

Amiver, Marcus, and Denmark sat down for dinner together, sharing a meal that brought a sense of happiness and unity. The dining table was adorned with delicious dishes, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and genuine joy.

As they ate, Amiver couldn't help but feel a warmth in her heart. Seeing Marcus and Denmark interact, sharing stories and enjoying each other's company, was a sight she had longed for. It was a moment of simple happiness that she had missed out on for years.

Marcus's eyes lit up as he talked animatedly about his day, his excitement infectious. "You won't believe what happened at my grandparents' house today, Mom! Lola and Lolo taught me how to plant flowers in the garden, and they said I did a great job!"

Denmark listened attentively, laughing at Marcus's anecdotes and adding his own stories to the mix. "That's wonderful, Marcus! Gardening is a fantastic skill to learn. Your Grandma and Grandpa must be really proud of you."

After their satisfying dinner, Amiver and Marcus retreated to their room.

"Ami," Denmark's voice reached her ears.

Turning towards him, Amiver responded, "Yes?"

"Tomorrow, I've got something special to share with both of you," he said, his eyes lighting up with a warm smile.

"Um, okay," Amiver replied, her curiosity piqued by his words.

"Sorry I couldn't show you around the island these past few days. I promise to make it up to you," he added, his sincerity shining through.

Amiver's heart softened at his heartfelt words. She felt a genuine connection forming, something unexpected but reassuring. "Thank you, Denmark. That means a lot to me."

Denmark nodded, his smile unwavering. "Rest well, both of you. Tomorrow holds a promise."

With those comforting words, Amiver and Marcus said goodnight and went into their room. As she lay down, Amiver's heart was full of different feelings. The new bond she felt with Denmark brought hope and excitement, and she fell asleep thinking about what the next day would bring.