Chapter 335: A Better Person

During this time, Selena became pregnant with Christopher. The pregnancy was unusually difficult, requiring hospitalization for the baby's safety. This put their plans to pick up Alexander on hold.

Following this, Alexander's condition deteriorated significantly. He became withdrawn, prompting suspicion at the ancestral home, Yrinas. They tried various interventions, including sending him to a summer camp for gifted children. However, upon his return, he showed severe emotional detachment, barely eating or drinking.

After diagnosis of autism, memory confusion, and emotional regression at age eight, Lionel arranged therapy. David and Selena then dedicated themselves to seeking medical help for Alexander. However, the limitations of the time, particularly in mental health care, hindered diagnosis. The lack of parental companionship was cited as a potential factor. Consequently, David and Selena kept Alexander close.

At nine, Alexander met Isabella, who was naive and inexperienced with the world.

Gradually, David and Selena realized that Alexander wasn't emotionally detached, but simply reserved. He possessed a vibrant spirit that needed nurturing.

Over time, Alexander improved, though it remained unclear whether this was simply maturation or the result of overcoming his trauma. One persistent issue remained: Alexander refused to return to Yrinas.

His emotional detachment was evident in his lack of expressed preferences. His first clear emotional display was a violent reaction—vomiting, fever, and unconsciousness—to the mention of returning to Yrinas. This prompted Isabella to ask, "Did he have a tough time growing up in Yrinas? Was he secretly bullied?"

Evian replied, "We asked, but he said no."

Isabella was confused. "There are no unpleasant memories," she mused. "It's just a reluctance to go back. Is it physical resistance?"

The family shared her confusion. Evian added, "We're not sure if it's true, or if his memory is blurry."

Secretly, despite their close family bond and the pain of doubting them, David and Selena had investigated Alexander's reluctance. All evidence from those who lived at Yrinas indicated that Lionel, Marley, and other relatives treated Alexander well. His intelligence and good looks made him a favorite among his siblings. Even Marley's daughter, studying abroad, prioritized playing with and tutoring Alexander, and actively helped him after learning of his mental health challenges. This investigation exonerated the family. David and Selena concluded that returning to Yrinas might trigger deep-seated feelings of abandonment.

Guilt-ridden, David and Selena avoided the topic of returning to Yrinas, maintaining an unspoken agreement. Occasional birthday visits were the extent of their contact.

However, the family at Yrinas remained concerned. For two years, Isabella was absent due to the family's disapproval of her marriage to Alexander; they were protective of him and believed David and Selena were negligent. Given Alexander's absence, there was no need for them to meet Isabella.

However, the Quirk family warmly invited Isabella this time. This drastic change stemmed from the widespread knowledge within the company of Alexander's deep affection for Isabella. Their desire to meet the woman who had such a positive impact on Alexander superseded previous concerns.

David and Selena were delighted. Thanks to Isabella, Alexander had truly become a better person.