The Russian Billionaire's Secret Heir

Chapter 23

After their conversation about Chase's feelings, Charles leaned back in his chair, a teasing glint in his eyes. "So, what about that woman you've been searching for? Any progress there?"

Chase's expression shifted in an instant, his previous tension melting away as a smile spread across his face. "Nope," he said, shaking his head with a chuckle. "Not yet."

Charles raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Not yet? I thought you'd have some updates by now. You always talk about her like she's the one."

"I know," Chase replied, his excitement evident as he put his wine glass down, suddenly more animated. "It's just... every time I think about her, I get this rush of energy. It's like I'm on the edge of something, but I just haven't found her yet."

"So what's stopping you? Why not go out and look for her?" Charles prompted, leaning forward. "You've always been the type to chase after what you want."

Chase sighed, contemplating his answer. "It's complicated. I don't want to rush in without knowing if it's really her or just an idea I've built up in my head. But the thought of her keeps coming back, like it's part of this whole feeling I can't shake."

"Maybe it's time to take a leap," Charles suggested, a grin spreading across his face. "If she's as important to you as you say, why not make finding her a priority?"

"I have always been," he replied.

As the days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years, Iris gradually found her footing as a new mother.

The early challenges of sleepless nights and overwhelming responsibilities slowly transformed into a rhythm that felt more manageable, thanks in large part to the unwavering support of her mother and their close friends.

They had been her lifeline, offering help, advice, and countless moments of laughter that lightened the load.

Now, four years later, Iris stood in the living room, watching her son Inigo as he played with a colorful set of building blocks scattered across the floor.

The room was filled with sunlight streaming through the windows, illuminating the vibrant artwork they had created together.

Inigo had grown into a spirited little boy, full of energy and curiosity. He was already able to speak in full sentences, his laughter ringing like music, and he proudly took his first steps, his little feet navigating the world with an adventurous spirit.

"Mommy, look!" Inigo exclaimed, proudly holding up a wobbly tower he had built. His eyes sparkled with joy, and Iris couldn't help but smile, her heart swelling with pride.

"That's amazing, sweetie!" she encouraged, kneeling down to his level. "You built that all by yourself!"

Inigo beamed, his confidence shining through. "Can we make it taller?" he asked, his small hands reaching for more blocks.

"Of course! Let's see how high we can go!" Iris replied, her heart warming at his enthusiasm. As they worked together, stacking the blocks higher and higher, Iris marveled at how far they had come.

There had been moments of doubt and uncertainty, but the love she felt for her son had only deepened with time. She often reflected on the early days, remembering the sleepless nights and the overwhelming emotions that had once consumed her.

Now, she felt more at ease, embracing the beautiful chaos of motherhood.

As the days turned into seasons, Iris had also made it a priority to cultivate her own passions, returning to painting and creativity, something she had loved before becoming a mother.

It was a delicate balance, but she found joy in expressing herself while also nurturing Inigo's growth.

Just then, the doorbell rang, and Iris glanced at Inigo, who looked up with wide eyes. "Who is it, Mommy?"

"I don't know! Let's go find out!" she replied, standing up and heading toward the door with Inigo trailing behind her.

When she opened the door, she was greeted by the warm smiles of her friends, who had come over for a surprise visit. "Surprise!" they exclaimed, arms filled with snacks and laughter.

Inigo's face lit up with excitement. "Friends! Yay!" he shouted, running toward them.

As they settled into the living room, Iris felt a wave of gratitude. Surrounded by loved ones, she realized that the journey of motherhood had been filled with support, laughter, and countless memories.

It was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of friendship, family, and love.

Looking at Inigo, playing happily with his friends, Iris knew that while the challenges of motherhood would continue to evolve, she was ready to face them head-on.

With her heart full, she embraced this chapter of their lives, knowing that together, they would create even more wonderful memories in the years to come.