If Love Is Cure

Journey begins

Xander Clayton, with his chiseled features and an athletic build that spoke of hours spent in the gym, was the epitome of a hot guy in his early twenties. The rhythmic hum of the treadmill echoed in his home gym as he enjoyed a solo workout, completely immersed in his own world. Suddenly, a persistent knock on the door interrupted his session.

"Yes?" he called out, a smile playing on his lips, anticipating the familiar faces behind the door.

The knocking continued, and he chuckled, thinking, "Mom and Dad, you people will never change." Amused, he walked toward the door, already envisioning the typical family surprise.

Opening the door, he was met with a burst of confetti as Ira unleashed a party popper on him. The room echoed with a chorus of "Happy Birthday, Xan!" Laughter filled the air as Xander embraced his family – mom, dad, Ira, and Maxwell.

"What a surprise, dude!" Xander exclaimed, his excitement contagious.

"Live long, my baby," Mrs. Clayton said, kissing his forehead.

"Thank you, Mom," Xander replied, reciprocating with a kiss on her cheek.

Teasingly, Mr. Clayton remarked, "Ummm... I understand you're the Birthday boy, but still, she is my wife... stay away, you man."

Xander playfully retorted, "Don't forget she's my mom now," kissing her cheek again.

As everyone laughed, Ira urged, "Well, it's time to cut the cake. Hurry up!"

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Seated in the hall, Ira found herself on the same sofa as Xander. Playful banter ensued, with Xander whispering teasing remarks.

"Well, you came this early just for my birthday or..." he trailed off, glancing at Ira and then Maxwell.

Blushing, Ira responded, "Ummm... but your face is speaking something else, my dear future brother-in-law."

Xander laughed, "But your face is saying something else, my dear future sister-in-law."

As the teasing continued, Mrs. Clayton issued a warning, "Xander, don't tease my daughter, or I won't spare you."

Ira, with a fake irritated expression, sought solace in her mother's hug. Xander, ever the playful son, asked, "Who am I then?"

Mrs. Clayton replied, "You are my son, and Ira is my daughter. And she is older, so behave yourself."

Ira winked at Xander, leaving him pouting. Mr. Clayton added his teasing remark, and laughter echoed in the room.

"Let's go for breakfast, and then we have to prepare for the party," Mr. Clayton announced, prompting everyone to rise.

"Party?" Maxwell inquired, curious.

"Yes, Xander's birthday party," Ira answered with a smile.

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Post-breakfast, the house buzzed with preparation for the evening festivities. Max, however, had other plans. He invited Ira to join him in the backyard for coffee.

In the spacious backyard, a gentle breeze rustled through the leaves, carrying the sweet scent of blooming flowers. Max and Ira sat on a quaint patio set, surrounded by vibrant greenery and the soothing melody of chirping birds.

Max poured steaming coffee into mismatched mugs, their warmth contrasting the cool breeze. "You know what, yesterday something happened to Mom and Dad," Max began, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

Ira, intrigued, leaned in, "What were they saying?"

"They started talking very strangely," Max chuckled, taking a sip of his coffee. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground.

Ira's curiosity heightened, "What were they saying?"

With a mischievous grin, Max continued, "That it's high time now... I should get married. Apparently, it's already too late."

The backyard seemed to hold its breath as Ira processed the revelation. "So, what did you say?" she asked, a hint of concern in her voice.

Leaning back in his chair, Max replied, "I don't want to get into these troubles of marriage and all... My freedom is very precious to me. And by the way, I don't understand girls." The flowers swayed gently in agreement with Max's nonchalant demeanor.

"Why?" Ira inquired, her gaze wandering to the vibrant blooms around them.

Max chuckled, "Girls are really melodramatic. They make a big deal out of everything."

"Not all girls are alike," Ira defended, her eyes fixed on a blooming rose.

"True... Some of them are like you. Different from all," Max complimented, his gaze softening as he looked at Ira.

"Are you giving me a compliment or making fun of me?" Ira teased, a playful smile on her lips.

"Of course, a compliment," Max said, smiling. The backyard seemed to echo their camaraderie, creating a moment suspended in time.

"You are my best friend. So obviously, you are different. I didn't become friends with any girl... And by the way, Mom and Dad said something else as well," Max continued, his eyes reflecting a mixture of amusement and anticipation.

"Oh, and what's that?" Ira asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity as a butterfly landed on a nearby flower.

"That I'll tell you when we will be out for dinner or lunch. I wanna enjoy your expressions. I'm sure you would be as shocked as I was," Max said, his laughter blending with the harmonious sounds of nature.

"You can see my expression now as well," Ira said, her eyes dancing with a playful glint.

"No, not now... It's getting late. Go to your house and come back soon after getting ready for the party... I too have some work," Max said, standing up. The sunlight intensified, casting a warm glow on the duo.

"I hate you, Max!" Ira pouted, a hint of laughter in her voice.

"Love you too," Max winked, and as Ira left, the backyard returned to its serene ambiance, a silent witness to the unfolding chapters of life.

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Anya, on the other hand, received a call from Zoe about attending Xander's party. Despite her reluctance, Zoe convinced her, even sending a matching dress for the occasion.

"I know you have your own dresses, ma'am, but the one I sent is kinda matching my dress. When I went to purchase mine, I bought it for you. So please, please, please wear that," Zoe pleaded.

Amused, Anya laughed, "You're a kid, Zoe... Okay, I'll go, but promise me that you won't do anything stupid like this next time."

"Yup, okay... Now get ready; we are getting late," Zoe urged.

"Umm, okay... See ya," Anya said before ending the call.

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Meanwhile, someone held a picture of Maxwell, expressing deep affection. The door knocked, and the servant informed her that the boss was calling.

"Honey, I'm coming!" she exclaimed, leaving with a wink to her reflection in the mirror.