The Imposter Bride (Natalia and Magnus) novel Chapter 549

Magnus merely shrugged with glee at the prospect of his son leaving. "Perfect, when do you plan on heading out? I'll have Paul book your flight."

Jonas glared at Magnus, irritation clear in his eyes. "Hmph, I'm not leaving that quickly. I want to spend more time with Mom. Are you dreaming of some alone time with her? Well, you'll have to wait a little longer! Ha-ha-ha!"

Magnus suddenly tensed up. "Son, the world out there is full of wonders. Are you sure you don't want to explore? Kids who just circle around their mothers never grow up."

"Of course, I'll go, just not now," Jonas said, leaping into Natalia's arms. "While I'm still not in school, I need to make Mom spend lots of time with me!"

Magnus' face darkened as he began to negotiate with Jonas, "Son, the nation needs you. You should head to school to learn, so you won't delay contributing to society!"

"No, no, no. I'll think about that after I've had enough rest," Jonas said, eyes squinting with laughter, looking mischievous as a clever fox.

"Son, let's discuss this further..."

Watching the most important men in her life, Natalia felt a wave of contentment wash over her. Despite the hurdles she and Magnus had faced, he had always stood by her, protecting and cherishing her, and that was enough.

With peaceful days upon them, her life would truly be complete if only she could find her lost daughter. With that thought, Natalia walked over to the playful father and son duo, feeling it was time to discuss the search for their daughter, Anna.

*

Oakwood Manor.

Gazing at the vast expanse of the sea, Johanson felt an unwavering resolve to leave with Anna to study and learn. Yes, the manor was grand, but it couldn't match the vibrant tapestry of the outside world. It would not be conducive to Anna's growth.

He had to take Anna away from here, to see the world and to experience the diversity of life!

Johanson approached his grandpa and, with a respectful nod, spoke softly, "Grandpa, I want to make my own way in the world."

The old man looked puzzled, "Do you want to leave? Isn't it good here?"

"No, sir, I don't want to live in the shadows like my father," Johanson said with earnest conviction. "I want to take Anna and step out into the colorful world, to experience and learn things that are different from here."

The old man, proud of Johanson's growth, nodded in approval. "Well, you've grown up, knowing what to choose and what to leave behind. If you want to make your mark out there, then go and be the man you're meant to be!"

With that, he handed Johanson a black card. "This contains the majority of my savings. I believe you are an exceptional young man, and you will make something of yourself. Go, find your own sky to conquer, and may you always follow your heart to happiness!"

Grateful for his blessing and generous gift, Johanson hugged his grandpa and then turned to leave.

That very day, Johanson packed his belongings and left Oakwood Manor with Anna. Although Anna longed to venture out, she cried uncontrollably at Gabby's grave before leaving. She scooped up a handful of soil from the grave, placed it in a small pouch she had sewn, sealed it, and wore it around her neck with great care.