Chapter 3

Camila's POV

The truth was finally revealed. Eighteen years ago, a nurse accidentally switched two babies and, fearing consequences, never dared confess. Lucas was our Santos family's biological son, while Diego... though not blood-related, was already an inseparable part of our family.

I made my decision: bring Lucas home, but never abandon Diego.

Diego was initially upset after learning the truth, but with my comfort, he quickly accepted it. That was just his nature—sunny, generous, always looking forward.

Lucas didn't believe the shocking news at first, but with the DNA report and my patient explanation, he finally accepted this life-changing fact.

Now it was time for him to truly come home.

When Lucas first stepped into the Santos family mansion, I saw incredible shock flash in his eyes.

The sunset made the oceanfront estate look magnificent in golden light. The multi-million-dollar architecture with its stunning Biscayne Bay view seemed like a fairy tale to Lucas, who grew up in the slums.

"I never imagined living in a place like this," Lucas said quietly, his complex gaze sweeping the surroundings.

"This is your home now too," Diego patted his shoulder with a brilliant smile. "Dude, we're going to be roommates!"

Diego remained that carefree, sunny boy, which relieved me.

Just then, Mother Maria rushed down the stairs. The moment she saw Lucas, tears poured out like a dam breaking.

"My child... my biological son..." She hugged Lucas tremblingly, sobbing uncontrollably. "You've suffered all these years!"

I saw Diego standing aside, looking somewhat lost. Mother's reaction was too intense, completely ignoring his presence.

I quietly walked to Diego's side and gently put my arm around his shoulder. "Jealous?"

"Not at all!" Diego immediately returned to his playful self. "I just think Mom's crying is a bit dramatic. It's not like Lucas actually disappeared for eighteen years."

"You heartless little devil." I couldn't help laughing and pinched his cheek.

"Hey! Don't treat me like a kid!" Diego protested and dodged, then leaned close to my ear. "But seriously, sis, Lucas looks nervous. Should we help him relax?"

See, that's Diego. Even in this situation, he still thinks of others.

I arranged for Lucas to stay in the room across from Diego's, hoping to foster their brotherhood. Lucas appeared humble and grateful about the arrangement, winning over the whole family.

"He adapted quickly," I observed Lucas's proper manners at the dinner table with some surprise. "He's more mature than I expected."

Maybe hardship really does shape character.

The next day, I took Lucas to Lincoln Road for a complete makeover.

Afternoon sunlight streamed through the boutique's floor-to-ceiling windows as I sat in the VIP lounge, watching Lucas change in the fitting room.

When he emerged wearing a tailored suit, even the staff accustomed to high society couldn't help but admire him.

"This gentleman has excellent taste," the salesperson said sincerely. "In this Armani, he looks like a natural aristocrat."

Lucas looked at himself in the mirror, seeming uncomfortable. "Two thousand dollars for one shirt?"

"As long as it fits, don't worry about the price." I said calmly, taking out my black card for the clerk.

He definitely had our family genes. That innate elegant bearing couldn't be bought with money.

By day's end, I'd spent over a hundred thousand dollars on Lucas—from suits to casual wear, from shoes to watches, completely repackaging him head to toe. Though Lucas was shocked by the enormous expense, he quickly adapted to this lifestyle change.

"Now you look like a real Santos," I said, satisfied with the transformed Lucas.

He smiled—the first time I'd seen him so relaxed.

Maybe he was finally starting to believe it was all real.

When we returned home, Mother Maria had prepared a grand family dinner to formally welcome Lucas.

The dining room blazed with lights, the long table laden with exquisite dishes—fresh seafood and various delicate desserts. The aromatic smells were mouth-watering.

"Eat more, Lucas." Maria gently held Lucas's hand. "You're too thin. You need proper nourishment."

Deep emotion flashed in Lucas's eyes. "Thank you... Mom."

I raised my wine glass and cleared my throat. "I want to announce something. To secure Lucas's future, I've decided to establish a trust fund in his name."

Everyone at the table turned to look at me. Lucas was too shocked to speak.

"Lucas, this is my welcome gift to you." I looked at him solemnly. "Officially welcome home."

Diego immediately raised his juice glass excitedly. "Cheers to our family!"

"To family!" everyone responded in unison.

I looked at the two brothers sitting on either side of the long table—Diego still that sunny, brilliant boy, excitedly chatting with Lucas about surfing; while Lucas, though still somewhat reserved, had the wariness gradually fading from his eyes.

"When are you two planning to go surfing?" I asked.

"Tomorrow!" Diego said excitedly. "I'm going to teach Lucas all the techniques. He'll definitely become a great surfer."

"I might not have much talent," Lucas said modestly.

"Don't say that!" Diego patted his shoulder. "We're brothers—you've got this."

Hearing this, Lucas paused, then smiled bitterly. "We don't share the same genes, Diego."

"Who cares?" Diego didn't mind at all. "Genes don't determine everything. What matters is we're brothers now, right?"

Watching this scene, I couldn't help but smile.

"Right, we're brothers," Lucas replied quietly.

After dinner, I stood on the balcony gazing at the night bay. Lucas quietly approached.

"Thank you," he said softly. "For everything you've done for me."

"No need to thank me." I turned to look at him. "You're my brother. It's what I should do."

"I still can't quite believe it." Lucas shook his head with a bitter smile. "A few days ago I was worrying about living expenses, and now..."

"Now you can focus on your studies and pursue your dreams." I interrupted. "Do you want to continue studying marine biology?"

"Of course, if possible." His eyes flashed with longing. "I've always dreamed of becoming a marine biologist."

"Then do it." I smiled. "The Santos family will support all your choices."

Lucas nodded, tears glistening in his eyes.

The sea breeze gently caressed our faces as distant waves crashed rhythmically. Looking at this brother who had just returned to our family, I felt an unprecedented sense of fulfillment.