Page 169 of Five Summers

Xander leans back in his seat. “What’s wrong, Princess?”

I lift my head. “Just thinking.”

“About?”

“Alex staying with my mom until I get back. Initially, I thought it would be okay with Mrs. B looking after him, but now...”

“Now you’re worried about him.”

“Yeah, you could say that.”

“I’ve been thinking about that, too. Not about him being with your mom, but about meeting him. I thought maybe we could fly back home during the five-day break while they set things up in New Zealand.”

“Seriously?”

“Yeah, why not? I can't wait to meet him. Plus, I wanted to talk about a few things.”

“Like?”

“Besides your mom living there, is there anything holding you back in that crappy town?”

“No, I lost my job.”

“Just a thought, but how about you and Alex come live with me in my house? What do you think?”

We both divert our attention to a person standing in front of us and the moment I look up, I’m on the verge of bursting into laughter.

“Fucking hell,” says Xander.

Standing in front of us is Theo, sporting a completely ridiculous disguise. He proudly displays a thick, seventies porn stache, which compliments the hideous sideburns. To complete the outfit, he rocks a black cap, letting his wavy, dark shoulder-length hair peek out.

“What do you think?” he queries, turning his head from side to side, so we can evaluate everything.

"Did you just get off some seventies porn set," Xander says.

“Why? What’s wrong with it?” Theo runs his finger over his mustache.

“You look fucking ridiculous,” Xander says.

“Can’t look any worse than you, asshole.”

“Are we good to go?” Xander asks, getting up from his seat.

Neil comes forward and takes the lead, and I can't help but notice the big guy is smirking at Theo. He walks ahead, leading the way toward the car Kit arranged for us.

The car swiftly transports us from the hotel to Circular Quay, passing by the bustling city streets. Our next adventure begins as we board onto a ferry that will take us to the zoo. Throughout the entire journey, Neil stays close by, keeping a watchful eye on all of us.

Unfortunately, Theo's stomach churns uncomfortably during the ferry ride to the zoo, prompting us to move outside insearch of relief in the refreshing breeze. As we step outside, I am immediately captivated by the sparkling, glimmering water, its surface mirroring the radiant glow of the sun. I gaze towards the Harbour Bridge, the iconic structure stretching across the water, and ponder if Nate and Ace are still strolling along its majestic path. Xander stands right beside me, and together we take in the breathtaking view of the picturesque landscape. Meanwhile, Theo sits behind us, constantly grumbling for the remainder of the journey.

As we arrive at the zoo, the sounds of laughter and chatter fill the air, while the sight of children running reminds me of Alex. I wish he could be here with us, savoring every moment of this experience. I wish he could witness it all—the kangaroos and the koalas that he adores so much, instead of just seeing them in a photo. I want to give him everything. I want him to have a life where he can follow his passions. To grow into a young man knowing that the world is full of endless opportunities. That’s my wish for him as he continues to grow - that he embraces every opportunity that comes his way.

Xander and I stroll through the zoo, hand in hand, while Theo, our knowledgeable guide, effortlessly educates us about every animal we encounter. I wonder if he had a similar love for animals as a child like Alex does.

As we spend our time here, heads turn as people catch glimpses of the guys in their amusing disguises. Unable to resist, I take a photo, a keepsake that will always bring a smile to my face.

When we reach the Australian animal enclosure, I eagerly feed pellets to the kangaroos. Xander grabs his phone, capturing them as they eagerly munch on pellets in my hand.

Throughout it all, Xander eagerly shows me the photos he’s taken, each one capturing a moment of pure happiness that he knows will bring joy to Alex. Seeing Xander like this, the desireto create these precious moments for our little boy fills me with deep gratitude for his dedication to our family.

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