The Billionaire Playboy’s Secret Family
Chapter 21

Marcus parked in the hospital's staff area and adjusted his tie. He had gotten used to Julius's far more casual attire though the latter always maintained a professional air in the office during official meetings. At the moment Marcus was envious at how comfortable Julius always appeared regardless of the situation. He always appeared to be in control. Marcus could use some of that confidence now.

Over the years Julius had increased his workload and responsibilities. He was good at multi-tasking, research and budgeting. The last year or so he had even taken part in board meetings, not just as an observer, but also giving progress reports and making suggestions. He had also been given projects to manage for more practical experience.

It was far from the carefree life he usually led but he also didn't feel overworked. Even with the DaLair children occasionally interrupting his progress. They always seemed to appear just when he was beginning to stress but no matter how busy he was he wouldn't give up his time with the kids. After just a few minutes of play or coloring with them he felt his stress levels diminish. When they inevitably returned home he was able to approach his tasks with a much better mind set and work went easier. Taking out the brightly colored bean bag Marcus squeezed it like a stress ball as he recalled his many hours of play. Slowly a feeling of contentment settled over him and he breathed easier. Once he was relaxed Marcus stepped out of the car and headed to the front door.

The Children's Hospital had begun as a small branch office to provide affordable care for low income families. It had grown considerably over the years with careful management. There was now a rather large, sprawling campus that included a wing with hotel rooms for family members to stay while their children were receiving long-term treatment.

Entering he headed to the front desk. There a receptionist smiled at him, "How can I help you?"

"I'm here to see Doctor Bernice Worthington. She's expecting me, Marcus Avery."

The moment he said his name her eyes went wide. He wondered if they had been informed of his arrival or had thought it a joke. Maybe they didn't' recognize him since he was dressed properly...and sober. "Mister Avery?"

Marcus turned to see a woman in a doctor's coat walking up to the desk. She was about his age or a bit older with dark brown hair and eyes. It had been years since he last visited the Worthington household but from what he could recall she did bear a striking resemblance to Liane Worthington. She had to be Bernice then.

"Hello, Mister Avery. I'm Doctor Worthington."

"Hello. Marcus, please," he shook her hand. "We did grow up together after all."

She paused, thinking about that. While it was true they were near the same age they had very little contact with each other. He was closer in age to Ethan and Liam but even contact with them was restricted thanks to his overbearing mother. The few times he was allowed to visit Bernice gave him and her brothers a wide berth, avoiding him as she always avoided her brother's friends.

Her opinion of Marcus hadn't improved with age as he built himself quite a reputation: drinking, parties, sex. However, the man in front of her now was very sober and quiet. It seemed Miles Avery hadn't been exaggerating when he claimed his grandson was a new

man.

***

"Hello, my dear," Miles greeted as Bernice stepped into the office.

Since the previous administrator's departure he had been making weekly visits to ensure the Children's Hospital received proper attention though Bernice handled most of the daily responsibilities. It wasn't easy splitting her time between administrative duties and her doctor tasks especially in the beginning. The previous tenant of this office had left quite a mess. Luckily Miles made it his personal mission to see everything was made right.

"Hello Mister Avery," she smiled sitting across from him.

"Anything new to report?"

"No, the hospital has been running smoothly," Bernice said. "There has been a little issue with some of the accounts past due. There is one in particular. I highlighted it at the top. It's over six months past due. I slated it to be sent to collections." Miles frowned looking at the account due.

"It's a sad story really," Bernice sighed. "Single mother with triplets no less. The little girl had chronic issues. I'm afraid next time they come in we'll have to deny them service."

"No. Don't do that."

"It's hospital policy."

"I know. Don't deny them regardless of the status of their account," Miles reiterated. Entering his card information he brought it under six months due before adding a notation to it that services should never be denied. Bernice leaned forward watching him make the adjustment before giving him a curious look. Although she herself pitied the family she wasn't certain about the ethical considerations of paying off even part of their account. "Mister Avery? Are you sure you should be doing that?"

Miles hesitated. He grew pensive, mulling over her words or perhaps another issue. After a moment he said, "A father's love is a father's love...a grandfather's love even more so." "I'm not sure I understand."

"In a few months you'll be getting some help."

"Help?"

"Marcus is coming home. I plan to make him acting administrator here so he can gain practical experience running a hospital. I'll be counting on you to show him the ropes." "...Marcus?" Bernice repeated wondering at his sudden change of topic. "Are you...sure?"

"I know what you are thinking," Miles sighed. "My grandson made quite a reputation for himself before I sent him off. But he's a changed man now. Believe me. I wouldn't have even considered this if he wasn't."

Bernice nodded not sure if she believed him. After all Marcus had proved himself a hopeless, drunken womanizer. In fact he was cut from a similar cloth as the hospital's previous administrator. If she was being honest she didn't think putting Marcus in charge of a children's hospital was a good idea. The media would go crazy once they learned of Miles's decision. Then again...

She herself had witnessed people change dramatically. All of her brothers in fact were very different than how they were a few short years ago. Well, all but Nicolas, she supposed. With Aubrey as his steadfast supporter and a growing family he was more himself than ever before: just as caring and sensitive but also protective and nurturing.

Fatherhood had done a world of good for Cole as well. He was much more relaxed. Bernice hadn't seen him smile so much as he did whenever he held his kids. She had even caught him baby talking and making silly faces at their most recent addition. Ethan and Liam certainly had their reputations as well. Since Nicolas's wedding and the official end of their family's competition they both had settled in to just being fathers and pursuing their own interests. Bernice still didn't think much of their wives but there was no doubting her brothers were much happier.

The same could be said about her sisters. Ronni had come back from Europe with a fresh mind and renewed interest in cooking. After interning at Ava's restaurant and taking a trip to New Orleans she had finally opened her own restaurant. Charlotte's news was even more surprising as she announced her engagement...to Victoria.

Needless to say it shocked the entire family. Even before the rest could process it Aubrey was on her feet congratulating her. No matter what anyone thought they could hardly do less than follow her example. Bernice knew their parents were still trying to come to terms with it all but they insisted Charlotte invite Vicki for Christmas. It had been awkward but with Aubrey happily chatting and including Vicki at every opportunity they followed her lead. Victoria was a charming woman and she adored all the kids having plenty of practice with Julius and Macey's children. In the end it probably went as smoothly as one could expect.

Bernice hoped they could all overcome their lingering hesitation in time for Charlotte's wedding. She really wanted her sister to have the wedding of her dreams.