They arrive at the house; everyone likes it—it's large and spacious, with a living room that leads to a big dining room, a large kitchen, a staircase that ascends to the sizable bedrooms.
There's a large garden in the back, leading to the stables, and nearby are small houses suited for the staff.
Valery notices an elderly couple approaching her.
Elderly Man: Good afternoon, soldier. Are you the new owners?
Valery: Yes, and you?
Elderly Man: My wife and I have been caretakers of the house and the horses. We were wondering if we would have to leave, but we have nowhere else to go.
Valery: Come with me. I'll introduce you to my parents.
Valery leads the elderly couple to the main house, where everyone is gathered in the large kitchen. The elders appear surprised upon seeing them.
Elderly Man: Are you all soldiers?
Lucas: I'm General Roberson, and these are my children, my wife, and my daughter-in-law. And you are?
Valery: Please, take a seat.
Elderly Man: Oh, no thank you.
Valery: It's easier to talk if you're seated.
The couple takes a seat and looks around at everyone.
Valery: Dad, they’ve been looking after the house and the horses.
Lucas, understanding what his daughter implied: Here's what we'll do. You'll continue to care for the horses, we'll pay you a salary for your work, and you can live in your current house without issue.
Elderly Man: Thank you, sir—I mean, General.
Lucas: Let me introduce my family—my wife Greta, my son Dikson, my son Jaiden and his wife, my daughter Valery, and the youngster is my youngest son, Angel. The babies are our grandchildren. And these are friends who are like family to us—Marcos, his mother Margo, and his son Carlos.
Everyone: Hello.
But the elders are particularly taken aback by Valery.
Elderly Man: I'm Miguel and my wife is Carmen, but this girl?
Valery: Ha ha, yes, that's me.
Carlos: And she's the best captain in the army.
The elders are astounded. They had never heard of a woman being a soldier—let alone a captain. Following the chat and introductions, they have dinner as a family, and Greta invites the elders to join them. This invitation further surprises them. They soon realize that the famed General Roberson is quite humble and unpretentious, and his children are much like him—qualities they find endearing in the family.
The next day, Marcos, Margo, and Carlos move into a house next to the Roberson family's, sharing the land.
Valery visits her secret childhood place, a wooden house she and Thomas built, which has been well-maintained over the years. She leaves a note that reads, "I'VE RETURNED, FRIEND. I'LL BE BACK TOMORROW AT THE TIME WE USED TO PLAY, VALERY." Later, Thomas arrives, finds Valery's note, and is overjoyed that his friend has returned.
Back at the castle, Thomas's happiness is unmistakable to his sibling.
German: So much joy, little brother.
Thomas: Valery has returned, brother. I'll see her again tomorrow.
German: I'm delighted for you, little brother.
Thomas is elated, and nothing will dampen his spirits.
Meanwhile, at the Roberson mansion:
Dorothy: Father, where are Lucas and his children?
Efrain: That's what I'd like to know.
Just then, Lucas enters, commanding as ever, with his children.
Lucas: Why are you looking for me?
Efrain: Son! What disrespect toward your father is this!!!
Lucas: Disrespect, Father? After all these years, my wife and young son are driven away, and my daughter-in-law is almost due to give birth.
Dorothy: What do you mean, wife and daughter-in-law?
Lucas: Yes, sister. I've remarried. Jaiden is also married and the happy father of two beautiful children. What I fail to understand is the reception my family receives after so many years fighting on the frontier.
Lorena: And Valery, son?
The siblings exchange looks among themselves.
Valery: I'm right here, ma'am.
Dorothy: What are you wearing? This is madness. How can I arrange your marriage in those clothes?
Valery: Listen, ma'am, you're the one who's crazy. Who says I'm getting married?
Efrain: Insolent! Strip off those clothes immediately. How can you allow this, Lucas?
Lucas, with a smile dancing on his lips: This 'insolent' one, as you call her, is the finest captain under my command. She's fought to defend our lands more times than you can imagine, and I could not be prouder of the woman she's become today. As for your arranging matters, sister, you have a daughter—plan her wedding with whomsoever you wish, but keep away from my family. And that applies to the rest of you too.
Efrain: Your wedding to widow Alana Altamira has been arranged, as well as your sons'.
Lucas: Ha ha ha! Don't make me laugh, Father. I have no idea what you will do about that, because I am utterly content with my wife, and you have a new grandson. His name is Angel. Come, children. Before I forget, do not seek us out again.
Lorena: Son!
Lucas: I am sorry, Mother.
***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***
Updated 30 Episodes
Download
Like this story? Download the app to keep your reading history.
Comments