Chapter 0809
Why should this be any different?
+25 BONUS
He didn’t love the idea of Alden being Peter’s son. But, objectively, Alden wasn’t a bad person. When they had worked together, Alden had shown intelligence and the ability to lead a company to success.
And that wasn’t even considering the personal side. Alden had taken care of a pregnant woman, four children, Serenity, and Emma. He had shown responsibility, patience, and strength. He had already proven that he could be the head of a family.
Marcus sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Serenity, Alden… I have no reason to oppose your relationship. And even if I did, we all know that the one who would suffer most is the baby. At least, that’s how I see it.
“But you need to talk to Valerie. Serenity, your mother’s reaction was wrong, I won’t deny that. But you need to understand that she doesn’t want you to make the same mistakes she did. She was young and naive once, too.”
Serenity bit her lip, nodding slowly.
“And, Serenity,” Marcus continued, his voice firm again, “if I taught you anything, it’s that you have to face the consequences of your actions. That means you need to talk to your mother. I know she won’t be as understanding as I am, but she’s still your mother, and you need to respect her. Got it?”
“Yes, Dad… I understand,” Serenity said, swallowing hard.
“Good.” Marcus turned to Alden. “Alden, once all of this with your father is sorted, you and I will be having a long conversation. But for now, I know today isn’t the time or place for that.”
Alden took a deep breath. He had been expecting this, but now came the hard part.
“Mr. Bartz… There’s something else I need to tell you,” Alden said, his nerves betraying him.
“Go on,” Marcus said, eyeing him suspiciously.
“Serenity and I… We got married in the Emirates.”
“What?!” Marcus’s voice echoed through the hall. “Why the hell would you do that? Were you not even going to tell us?!”
“I’m sorry, Dad…” Serenity whispered. “I was afraid of how you’d react…”
“Serenity! When have I ever done anything to hurt you? My dear! I have to be honest with you… Hearing that you got married without telling me–it hurts. It disappoints me”
“Dad… Why?”
“Because, Serenity, why didn’t you trust me enough to talk to me about this? You and I have always been honest with each other. We’ve always spoken openly. And now, you’re keeping things from me?”
“No, Dad… But I was scared that you’d try to separate us. Especially because of who Alden’s father is.”
“Mr. Bartz, please don’t blame Serenity,” Alden interjected “It was my idea. The truth is… when we left Valentia, things weren’t exactly great between you and my father. At the time, we thought you would try to keep us apart. Now, we know that wasn’t true. But we never wanted to go against your wishes or disrespect you.”
Marcus clenched his jaw, trying so hard to keep his fists from connecting with his son–in–law’s face. He knew this was just his emotions getting the better of him. He needed time–time to process, to think rationally.
And, as much as it pained him to admit it, Alden was right. Back when they left, he had been blinded by jealousy.
+25 BONUS
Chapter 0809
He had practically been hunting Peter down. His mind had been clouded, and he hadn’t been thinking clearly.
Marcus exhaled, shaking his head. “Serenity. Alden. You need to talk to Valerie. You need to make things right with her. And please, just tell me… That marriage–was it at least civil?”
“Yes, Mr. Bartz. We had a civil ceremony,” Alden confirmed
“Good. Because you will be getting married in the church. No Bartz woman will be married by civil union alone. Understood?”
