The night stretched deep and still by the time Alexander's car rolled through the wrought-iron gates of Gonzales Mansion. The air screamed peace. He turned off the engine, a faint smile tugging at his lips. It's been a long time.
The main door opened after two soft knocks, revealing one of the household helpers. At this hour, there were usually only one or two staff members left on duty.
"Welcome home, young master," the man greeted warmly, bowing slightly, happiness evident in his voice.
Alexander gave a short nod in reply.
"Let me call Master and Madam…"
Before he could finish, a familiar voice echoed from the living room.
"Woah! My dear son is here. What a rare sight! We poor folks finally got a chance to meet the almighty General Gonzales!"
The voice dripped with mockery and affection, it was Theodore Gonzales, his father. The President of Gonzales Corp. A man who loved his family to the moon and back, and the complete opposite of his son- approachable, humorous, and warm. A close friend and best man to Zachary Remington.
"Daaad…" Alexander groaned, eyes closing as if bracing himself.
"What, dad?" Theodore shot back, feigning offense. "You've been away for years and now you dare walk in here so casually? Huh! It's been five years since you last let us see you, and fourteen since you actually set foot in this mansion. You could at least have let us visit you. But no, sir was too worried we might get hurt because of his 'dangerous job.'" He snorted dramatically.
All the while, Alexander stood silently, gaze lowered, letting his father vent years old anger and sadness. When the storm of mock-anger subsided, he stepped forward and hugged Theodore tightly.
"It's my job, Dad. And I love it. But I couldn't risk the lives of the people I love. You know how many enemies I have."
Theodore sighed but returned the hug, his anger melting away. "You think I can't protect myself or your mom from a few scums? I'm your dad, remember?"
Alexander chuckled softly. "Yeah, I know. But still… "
Theo cut him off with another sigh. "Alright, alright. Then tell me, what happened now?"
"Guess what," Alexander said, a faint grin lighting his face. "I decided to spend some time with my family. I took a few days off. I'll have to visit the camp occasionally, but mostly, I'll be here. No secret missions, no terrorists this time."
"That's great!" Theodore said, eyes brightening.
"By the way, where's Mom?" Alexander asked.
"Right here. Behind you."
A calm yet sharp voice came from behind. Alexander turned, his expression instantly softening.
There she stood, the woman who brought him into this world. Emma Gonzales. Elegant as ever, arms crossed, pretending to be annoyed as she watched her husband and son reunite without her. Her happiness, however, betrayed her eyes.
"Mamma!" Alexander chirped, rushing toward her.
"Don't 'mamma' me, Alex," she said sternly, though her lips trembled and a single tear escaped.
"Oh my mamma," he whispered gently, wiping her tear. "See? Now that I'm here, no more crying, okay?"
She hugged him tight, forgetting everything, because that's what mothers do.
"Now I won't let you go anywhere," she murmured.
"Okay, okay, I'm not going," he chuckled, holding her close.
"Look at that," Theodore muttered from behind. "The brat's back to steal my wife."
Alexander laughed, and Emma swatted her husband's arm playfully.
"Go freshen up and come down for dinner," Emma said fondly.
"Oh, I already ate," Alexander replied. "I just came from RN Hospital."
"Eh? You were there? But I didn't see you," Theodore said in surprise.
"Me neither," Alexander shrugged. "Mom, you didn't come?"
Emma sighed. "No, dear. I was stuck with a client. I really miss Adeline. It's been years since I saw her."
"Oh dear! You're the one always traveling around the world, remember?" Theodore teased.
Emma rolled her eyes playfully. "I'm in search of fashion, Theo. You wouldn't understand."
Her tone softened then. "I truly wish to see her again. I couldn't be there when she needed me most."
Alexander frowned slightly. "What happened to Aunt Adeline?"
"Nothing to worry about," Theodore jumped in quickly. "It's all in the past. She's perfectly fine now - fit, happy, and glowing! Well, maybe after your mom."
"You!" Emma exclaimed, giving him a playful slap.
Alexander chuckled, watching them banter, the sight washing away years of loneliness and duty.
Just as his father intended, he forgot the question about Adeline for now. The sweet family, a little playful, a lot loving, was finally whole again.