chapter 46

Justin’s Side – Afternoon CelebrationThe private garden of the London Tower Hotel was elegantly decorated, but unlike the royal party scheduled for the evening, this was a more intimate gathering. Nicolo had arranged a personal birthday celebration just for Justin—no outsiders, no unnecessary formality.A simple yet elegant table was set up in the middle of the lush garden, with a delicious spread of food. Justin sat in his chair, swinging his legs slightly, as he took in the scene before him."You’re quieter than usual" Nicolo remarked as he poured himself a glass of wine.Justin shrugged. "I just… thought birthdays would feel different."Nicolo raised an eyebrow. "How so?"Justin twirled his fork, looking thoughtful. "I guess I thought birthdays were supposed to be about fun. But it feels like just another day."Nicolo leaned back, observing his son. He wasn’t the type to sugarcoat things, but he also didn’t like seeing Justin down. "That’s because you haven’t found the right people to celebrate with yet," he said casually.Justin didn’t respond immediately. Instead, he pulled out his phone and sent a quick text.Justin: Happy birthday to you too.A reply came instantly.Mysterious Friend: Haha! We share the same fate, huh? Did you make a wish?Justin glanced at his father, then back at his phone.Justin: Not yet. Maybe I’ll make one now.As he put his phone away, Nicolo stood up and placed a hand on his son's head. "Enjoy your day, Justin. You only turn this age once."Justin smiled faintly. Maybe, just maybe, this birthday wasn’t so bad.Alex’s Side – Afternoon CelebrationMeanwhile, in Italy, another birthday celebration was in full swing. Unlike Justin's quiet gathering, Alex’s birthday was filled with laughter and chaos.The grand living room was decorated with pastel balloons, streamers, and a massive banner that read: "HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEX!"The boy in question was currently running around the room, dodging his mother’s playful attempts to catch him."ALEX! STOP JUMPING ON THE COUCH!" Amaira scolded, hands on her hips, though her lips twitched in amusement.Alex, grinning mischievously, landed on the floor and stuck out his tongue. "But it’s my birthday!"Amaira sighed dramatically. "And what kind of birthday boy ignores his own cake?"At that, Alex's eyes widened. "Cake?"Amaira chuckled, leading him to the dining table where a beautifully decorated cake sat. Alex’s eyes sparkled. "Did you make this, Mama?"Amaira nodded. "Of course. Only the best for my son."Alex climbed onto the chair and clapped his hands together. "I know what I’m gonna wish for!"Amaira watched him, her heart aching slightly. She already knew what his wish would be.Alex closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and whispered, "I wish I could meet my twin brother or sister"Then, he blew out the candles.Amaira smiled, though her eyes were filled with sorrow. One day, baby. One day you’ll meet him.Later that afternoon, as Alex played with his gifts, Amaira sat on the balcony, staring at the two wrapped presents on the table.One was for Alex.The other… was for the child she had been searching for all these years.She traced her fingers over the neatly tied ribbon, her heart heavy. How great would it be if I had both my children with me today?She had never once forgotten about her lost son. Every year, she bought him a gift, keeping it safe, hoping that someday, she would be able to give it to him herself.She clenched her fists. No matter what, I will find him.***Amaira sat in front of her vanity, staring at the rows of elegant dresses hanging in her wardrobe. Each one was tailored to perfection—after all, they were her own creations. Yet, she felt no enthusiasm for tonight’s event.Her fingers tapped impatiently against the table as she let out a sigh. She had no desire to dress up and attend the grand party at the Queen’s palace. A party for her, no less.Alex, already dressed in a sleek little suit, peeked into the room. His grey eyes, so full of mischief, studied his mother curiously."Mom, are we not going?" he asked, tilting his head.Amaira exhaled. "We have to, but I don’t feel like it."Alex’s lips twitched into a knowing smirk. "Then let’s not go."She narrowed her eyes at him. "You just want to skip because there’ll be boring adults there."Alex grinned. "Exactly."Just as she was about to agree with him, her phone rang. The screen flashed with the name: Queen Evelina.Amaira winced.She hesitated for a moment before answering. "Hello—""Don’t even think about it, Amaira," the Queen’s sharp voice cut through. "I know you’re planning to skip. Get dressed and bring my darling nephew to the palace in an hour. And if you dare try to excuse yourself, I will personally drag you here."Amaira pinched the bridge of her nose. "Evelina, I really don’t—""Not another word. I expect you here, looking as regal as ever."The line went dead.Alex, watching the entire scene, burst into laughter. "You just got scolded!"Amaira groaned, tossing her phone onto the bed. There was no escaping this."Fine," she muttered, standing up. "Let’s get this over with."Alex fist-pumped in victory. "Yes! Let’s make an entrance, Mom!"Within minutes, Amaira was dressed in a breathtaking gown—one that shimmered under the light like liquid silver. She styled her hair into an elegant updo, her makeup enhancing her natural beauty. When she stepped out, Alex clapped his hands in approval."Now you look like the world-famous designer, Lilyt," he said with admiration.Amaira smirked. "I am Lilyt."Taking her son’s hand, she walked toward the waiting car. The party awaited them.