The real challenge came when Edward turned eighteen.
The boy who had once clung to Alexander's hand was now a man, ready to carve his own path.
And just like before, Edward had dreams that would take him far from home.
Alexander sat in his study, staring at the letter in his hands. It was from Cambridge University.
Edward had been accepted.
His heart swelled with pride—but also with a deep, painful ache. In his past life, he had barely noticed when Edward left for university. He had been too absorbed in work, too distracted by his own world.
By the time he had realized his mistake, Edward had already learned to live without him.
Alexander refused to let that happen again.
That evening, he found Edward in the garden, staring up at the sky.
"You'll do well at Cambridge," Alexander said, standing beside him.
Edward turned, smiling softly. "You're not going to tell me to stay?"
Alexander sighed. "I won't lie—I'd like you to. But I've spent my whole life trying to be a better father. And that means letting you go when the time is right."
Edward's expression softened. "You know… I was afraid you'd be disappointed. That I'd be leaving you and Mama behind."
Alexander chuckled, placing a hand on his son's shoulder. "Edward, my boy, you could never disappoint me."
Edward exhaled, his eyes misty. "Thank you, Papa. For everything."
And as they stood there, father and son, Alexander realized something.
He had feared this moment, afraid that Edward leaving would mean history repeating itself.
But it wasn't the same.
Because this time, when his son walked away, Alexander knew one thing for certain—
Edward would always come back.