REUNITED

They broke free from the hug as they heard Adrian clearing his throat behind them.

"You just can't be patient," Alex said with a chuckle and they all laughed.

"I didn't stay all that long without you just for you to return and keep me waiting to have you," he said as he pulled her forcefully to himself. She landed on his chest and they all laughed.

"Maria, I want to say thank you once again. As long as I would want you to stay, I still cannot force you against your decision to go in search of Elena's father. But I want you to know that, if you ever need anything, we are just only a call away. We are your family," he said with all sincerity.

She smiled broadly and nodded.

"Thank you," she muttered.

"Now go back inside and party," Alex urged.

"While I take this beautiful woman of mine inside," he said as he carried her up in a bridal style.

"Inside of where? Stop!" Alex cried as she banged his chest.

"Shh, we will go through the back door so you don't get disturbed again," he said and s