My Love Until the Last Goodbye by Alut

Chapter 0146 After a few emotional minutes at Peter’s final resting place, Marcus Bartz gently urged Valerie to leave. The security team had signaled that someone was loltering nearby–a risk Marcus couldn’t afford. “My beloved Valerie, we need to go. It’s dangerous to say here,” Marcus said, his eyes scanning, the area. Valerie sighed, gripping the memories that weighed heavy on her heart. “I understand. Thank you for letting me see him. I feel more at peace now.” With one last look, they left the cemetery quickly, avoiding any chance of being noticed by anyone connected to the Palmer or Levett families. After twenty minutes of driving, the convoy arrived in Westhaven, stopping in front of an expansive white mansion. The three–story home boasted spacious rooms, grand windows, and lush gardens overflowing with vibrant greenery. Marcus had personally insisted to Frederick that the security measures be top–notch. Despite the exclusivity of the neighborhood, Marcus knew his enemies wouldn’t hesitate to breach the area if they were determined enough. He wasn’t just protecting himself anymore–his wife and children were now his priority. “Welcome home, Valerie,” Marcus said, opening the grand door of the mansion. “Marcus… this place is enormous! It’s nothing like our home in Hesperia,” Valerie said, her eyes wide as she took in the opulent living spaces. “Valerie, my love, I know today’s visit was difficult for you. It was something you needed to do, though. Seeing where Peter rests has given you some closure, and today is important for that and another reason. Come with me to the back garden–I have something to show you,” Valerie hesitated, still processing the whirlwind of emotions from the day. “Marcus, I know this is hard for you too. I’m sorry you had to see me like that earlier.” “Valerie, when I met you, I knew exactly who you were and who you loved. The fact that you let me into your heart is enough for me to love you every day of my life,” Marcus said, placing a hand over her heart. “Now, trust me and come with me. It’s important you see the garden.” “Since when do you care about gardens, Marcus?” she teased, trying to lighten the mood. “You like them, don’t you? That means I care about them too. You and our children are my world. Even the smallest details matter to me,” Marcus replied, his voice steady and sincere. They stepped into the back garden, where a beautifully maintained space awaited them. Valerie noticed. a figure sitting at one of the garden chairs by the table. “Who is that?” Valerie asked, her voice tinged with curiosity. “Go and see for yourself. You know her well, and I’m certain she knows you too,” Marcus said with a +25 BONUS Chapter 01:46 knowing smulle, gesturing for her to approach. Intrigued, Valerie walked toward the woman. Her mind raced, trying to place the figure, but no clear memory emerged. “Good heavens! My dear girl! You look exactly the samel” exclaimed the older woman, her voice trembling with emotion. “Emma Rosewood! Is it really you?” Valerie gasped, her hand flying to her mouth in disbelief. “Yes, my child, it’s mel Your husband searched heaven and earth to find me,” Emma said, tears streaming down her face. “Emma! I can’t believe it. It’s been so long since I last saw you,” Valerie said, her voice shaking as she scanned the woman, drinking in every detall. Marcus watched the reunion with a warm smile. “Ladies, It’s a pleasure to see Valerie surrounded by the memories she holds dear. I’ll leave you two to catch up I need to discuss some details about the house with Frederick.” As Marcus walked away, the leather briefcase he carried remained firmly in his grasp. He hadn’t let go of it f for a second–it was as though its contents were a dangerous secret, a ticking time bomb he couldn’t afford to set loose.