chapter 41

**Italy**The morning sun cast a golden hue over the vast estate, its light filtering through the grand floor-to-ceiling windows of a luxurious Italian villa. The house stood like a palace, its intricate architecture a blend of modern sophistication and classic elegance. Chandeliers sparkled above velvet drapes, and every corner of the house screamed wealth, exclusivity, and refinement.In the master bedroom, a woman stirred beneath the silk sheets. As she opened her eyes, the room reflected her aura—pristine, composed, and effortlessly regal. She was a vision of beauty, her skin flawless, her hair cascading down like a waterfall of midnight. Her Indian skin maching the floral walls with a tint of glory. With practiced grace, she stepped out of bed, stretching slightly before making her way to the lavish en-suite bathroom.The warm water cascaded down her back as she showered, washing away the night’s dreams. Soon, she stood before her full-length mirror, clad in a breathtaking ensemble—her own creation. No brand in the world could compare to what she designed. After all, she was Lilyt, the world-famous designer, the woman whose name alone set the fashion world ablaze.Composed and radiating elegance, she stepped out of her bedroom, her heels clicking lightly against the marble floors. But instead of heading to her office, she walked to a different room—a smaller, cozier one filled with warmth. The walls were painted a soft blue, shelves stacked with toys, and the bed was a playful mess of blankets and plush animals. It was a child’s paradise.She pushed open the door and smiled softly.“Alex?” she called, her voice carrying a mother’s warmth.Silence.She sighed, already sensing what was happening. Taking a few steps inside, she scanned the room, her gaze landing on the slightly shifted curtains. A knowing smirk played on her lips.“Hmm… where could my little prince be?” she mused aloud, feigning innocence.Still, no answer.From behind the plush curtains, the tiniest giggle escaped.Her smile widened. With graceful steps, she walked past the bed, pretending not to notice the small feet peeking from underneath the drapes. “Hmm… where could my little troublemaker be?” she mused, tapping her chin in mock thought.Silence. Then another giggle.In one swift motion, she pulled the curtains back, revealing a bright-eyed boy with raven-black hair and striking gray eyes. He burst into laughter, his dimples deepening as he threw his arms around her. “You found me again, Mama!”Amaira—now Lilyt—picked him up effortlessly, spinning him around as he let out a delighted squeal. “Of course I did, my little prince. You can’t hide from me forever.”Alex pouted playfully. “One day, I’ll be the best at hiding!”She tapped his nose. “I’d like to see you try.”They sat down on his bed, practised comfortably nestled against her, his small hands fidgeting with the hem of her designer blouse. “Mama,” he said, his tone suddenly serious, “do you think Papa would’ve been good at hide-and-seek?”The question made her breath hitch for a split second, but she recovered, stroking his hair with practiced ease. “I think he would’ve been very good at it.”Alex’s lips pursed, deep in thought. “Would he have loved me?”Her heart clenched, but her expression remained composed. She cupped his small face, making him look at her. “Maybe.”The boy beamed. “Then I love him too.”Amaira swallowed hard, pressing a gentle kiss to his forehead. “Forgive mama for everything, dear.”Alex looked up at her with hopeful eyes. “Its okay Mama. I know it must have been hard for you when dad died but it's fine, I will always support you. I will feed you when I am older.... Only if Dad could see me grow up!" He sighed trying his best not to upset his dear mamaAmaira smiled, but her eyes held a deeper sorrow. “Dad wouldn't have wanted you all sad. He would have wanted you to grow up healthy.” she said softly, running her fingers through his soft black curls."It would have been so good if the entire family would have been together." He whispered keeping his tears behind"It surely would." Amaira looked at Alex. Seeing him upset she held her son's face and made him look at her. "Indeed I can't say about your father but I promise my dear I will reunite our family of three. I will find your brother and get him back to us. It was my mistake all those years ago. If I hadn't gone weak during the pregnancy and if I was concious to stop the kidnappers from taking them your brother then maybe I could have saved him. I got my consciousness right after he was taken. I couldn't get up as another pain shot and you were born. That's how I lose him. I am a failure as another." She confessedAlex gave his mama a knowing look and placed his hand over hers, "It's okay mama. It was not your fault. You were not strong enough to fight and get him back. You are not a failure. You are the world's best mother." They hugged tight as both found solace in each other."I will bring him back no matter what."