The Imposter Bride (Natalia and Magnus) novel Chapter 413

Hector's new room was just up the stairs, nestled in a quaint corner of the two-story Victorian house that Natalia and Magnus called home. As he lugged his suitcase up each step, Natalia's voice followed him, tinged with a hint of melancholy.

"There's your room, Hector. Make yourself at home. I'm sure the memories will come back before too long," she said, her voice echoing in the empty hallway. She knew better than to dwell on the painful past. The heart-wrenching stories were best left buried.

Brushing off the gloom, Natalia put on a cheerful face. "Don't worry about remembering everything. What's forgotten is probably not important. The main thing is you're back safe and sound. That's all that matters. Just get used to life around here and remember we're your family."

"Yeah, we're your family," Magnus chimed in, with a protective glare that left unsaid words hanging in the air. “And don't you dare think about making a move on my wife.”

Of course, while he didn't voice this out loud, his actions spoke volumes, and he was certain Hector would pick up on the unspoken warning.

Hector sipped the glass of ice water Natalia had handed him, swallowing the bitter taste that lingered in his throat. "Thank you," he murmured.

"What are you thanking us for? We're family," Natalia replied, quickly shifting gears. "Now, why don't you change out of those clothes and toss 'em out? Get yourself a fresh haircut, and I bet you'll look and feel like a new man."

Hector nodded in agreement, and Natalia's eyes crinkled with happiness. It was just like the old days when Hector would agree to anything she suggested.

"Mama, I'm home!"

The silence was broken by the front door swinging open as little Jonas burst into the room, beaming with joy. "Mama, it's been a whole week! I've missed you so much! Did you miss me?"

"Of course, I missed you, sweetheart!" Natalia replied, realizing it was the weekend and time to cherish moments with her beloved son. "Hungry? Should I whip up something for you?"

Jonas shook his head and snuggled into Natalia's shoulder, then noticed Hector sitting across the room. "Who are you? Uncle Hector?"

Hector nodded gently. "Yes, but I'm afraid I don't remember you."

Jonas hopped off Natalia's lap, eyes wide with recognition. "You are Uncle Hector! Oh my gosh, you've lost so much weight! Uncle Hector, do you know how cool you were that day you saved me from falling off the deck? I was totally in awe!"

Hector forced an awkward smile, not recalling any of the heroics Jonas was praising.

"Uncle Hector, where have you been all this time? Mom was so worried about you; I've seen her crying in secret."