A millionaire boy encounters another boy who looks just like him living on the streets, wearing dirty, tattered clothes, and decides to take him home and introduce him to his mother. Look, mom, he’s just like me. When she turns around and sees the two of them together, she falls to her knees, weeping. I knew it! What she reveals will leave you speechless. But how is this possible? You… you look just like me! Ashton exclaimed, his voice cracking with surprise as he stared at the boy in front of him. The young millionaire blinked several times, trying to believe what he was seeing.
There, just a few steps away, stood an identical boy. They had the same deep blue eyes, the same delicate features, the same golden hue in their straight hair. For a moment, Ashton wondered if he was looking at a mirror.
But no. It was real. The boy standing in front of him was also watching him, frozen, as if he were seeing a ghost.
The similarity was absurd, frightening, inexplicable. However, while their features were identical, something screamed the difference between them. Ashton looked more closely at the boy and noticed the dirty and torn clothes, the disheveled hair and the sunburnt skin, weathered by life on the streets.
The scent was different, too. While the young millionaire exuded an imported perfume, the boy in front of him carried the strong odor of abandonment and daily struggle. For a few minutes, the two just stared at each other, as if time had stopped.
Then, cautiously, Ashton took a step forward. The street boy instinctively recoiled slightly, but was stopped by the young millionaire’s gentle voice. There’s no need to be afraid.
I won’t hurt you, Ashton said, trying to convey confidence. The street boy remained silent for a moment. His eyes showed distrust.
Ashton, curious and kind, asked, What’s your name? For a few seconds, the answer didn’t come. Until, in a hoarse and quiet voice, the boy finally said, Luke, my name is Luke. A radiant smile spread across Ashton’s face.
He extended his hand, a gesture that carried a rare sincerity. I’m Ashton. Nice to meet you, Luke, he said enthusiastically.
Luke looked at the outstretched hand, hesitant. No one usually greeted him. It wasn’t common to receive a smile, let alone a gesture of friendship.
Children usually avoided him, calling him dirty, smelly. But Ashton didn’t seem to care about the clothes he wore, nor about his smell. After a moment of surprise, Luke extended his hand as well, accepting the greeting.
Feeling the handshake, Ashton felt a strange sense of familiarity, as if that boy was part of his life in some inexplicable way. Where do you live? Ashton asked, eager to know more. Luke opened his mouth to reply, but there wasn’t time.
A female voice, authoritative and worried, echoed through the street. Ashton, where are you? Penelope, the boy’s mother, called out. The little millionaire smiled excitedly.
Come on, Luke, my mother needs to meet you. She’ll be shocked when she sees how much we look alike, he said, turning to call Luke. But when he heard footsteps approaching, the street boy panicked.
Without thinking, he turned and dashed down the street. Wait, don’t go! Ashton shouted, running a few steps, but it was too late. Luke disappeared into the alleys.
In the next moment, Penelope arrived, her face etched with worry. She found her son on the sidewalk, his eyes fixed in the direction Luke had vanished. My God, Ashton, I’ve been looking for you everywhere, she said, breathless.
Ashton turned, his heart still racing. I just came outside to get some air, Mom, he replied, trying to explain. You know I don’t like you going out into the street alone, Penelope scolded, adjusting her son’s small jacket.
I didn’t go to the street. I just stayed here on the sidewalk, the boy assured her. Penelope took a deep breath, relenting.
All right, but let’s go inside. It’s time to cut the cake and sing Happy Birthday. Your father is waiting.
Ashton grimaced. Do I really have to go? He asked reluctantly. Of course you do, dear.
It’s your father’s birthday. Penelope replied, trying to smile. The truth was that Ashton, despite being very young, already harbored unfavorable feelings towards his father.
An invisible wall existed between them, built on distrust and disappointment. Still, not wanting to upset his mother, the boy accompanied her back to the party hall, but before entering, he discreetly turned to the street, looking for any sign of Luke. As they walked, Penelope commented, Was there someone else outside? I thought I heard you talking to someone before I found you.
Ashton opened his mouth to tell her about the extraordinary encounter, but he was interrupted. Finally, where have you been? Everyone’s waiting, said Afonso, Ashton’s father, appearing before them with a frown. The little boy just lowered his head, swallowing the urge to tell what had happened.
And so, the party continued. Forced smiles, automatic applause, camera flashes. Ashton participated in everything mechanically, but his mind was far away, traveling back to the magical moment when he met Luke.
That boy so similar, yet so different from him. Later, back at the mansion, Ashton walked through the luxurious hallways to his room. The setting was every child’s dream, video games, tablets, and toys scattered everywhere.
He collapsed onto the plush bed, clutching a pillow and staring at the ceiling, lost in thought. The image of Luke wouldn’t leave his head. How could someone so like him exist? Where did he live? Why were his clothes so dirty and torn like that? Meanwhile, miles away, Luke huddled on a piece of cardboard on the cold sidewalk of an alley.
His eyes were fixed on the starry sky, but his mind was stuck on that strange encounter. How could there be another just like him? A boy who had everything, while he had nothing. And even without knowing it, the two boys shared from that day on, the same thought.
Would they ever see each other again? Night descended upon the city, enveloping every street, every house, and every soul in a silent, cold blanket. In the luxurious mansion where Ashton lived with his parents, the silence was broken only by Penelope’s restless sighs as she tossed and turned in bed. The covers tangled around her feet as she fought a nightmare that seemed more real by the second.
Lying beside her husband, the businesswoman emitted distressed murmurs. Her face, normally serene, was contorted into an expression of despair. Afonso, bothered by his wife’s constant movement, opened his eyes and let out an impatient sigh.
With little finesse, he turned and shook her shoulders. Wake up, Penelope, he said, irritated. The woman abruptly opened her eyes, gasping for breath, and sat up in bed, her hands pressed against her rapidly beating heart.
No, don’t take him! My son! She screamed, her voice filled with the terror of the nightmare. Afonso leaned forward and held her hands, trying to bring her back to reality. Calm down, darling, calm down.
Ashton is fine. He’s sleeping soundly in his room, he asserted, attempting to sound convincing. Penelope’s eyes searched desperately for something to anchor her to reality.
She recognized the room illuminated by the soft light of the bedside lamp, felt the touch of her husband, heard the distant ticking of the clock on the wall. Then, in a tremulous whisper, she murmured. It was all a dream.
Afonso, already accustomed to those episodes, leaned back against the headboard and watched her, knowing the nightmare was nothing new. He waited patiently as she ran her hands over her face, trying to push away the remnants of fear. The same dream again? he asked, in a tone somewhere between weariness and resignation.
Penelope nodded, her voice breaking as she began to relate. I was in the hospital. I was about to give birth.
My belly was so big, Afonso, it felt like it was going to explode. I saw the first baby born. I held him in my arms, felt his warmth.
It was our Ashton, our prince. But I knew there was another. She said, her eyes brimming with tears.
She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to hold back the tears that insisted on falling. But when the second one was born, she continued, her voice faltering, he was taken away. I didn’t even get to see him or touch him.
I just saw him being carried away. Penelope’s heart clenched again, as if reliving the pain in that very instant. Afonso sighed, struggling to remain calm.
You need to see a psychiatrist, Penelope. This isn’t normal. You need professional help to erase these dreams from your head.
It’s the same dream every time. My love, we only had one child. You were only pregnant with Ashton.
They weren’t twins. He suggested, attempting to sound understanding. Penelope, however, didn’t answer immediately.
Her lost gaze crossed the room while his mind traveled to the past. She remembered the pregnancy as if it were yesterday. The exaggerated size of her belly at only six months.
The constant visits to the obstetrician. How she commented to Afonso, full of hope, that she felt two hearts beating inside her. I was so sure.
She murmured, her voice thick with emotion. So sure there were two. It wasn’t just a feeling.
It was as if I knew them already, even before they were born. She saw herself again in that doctor’s office, hearing the sonographer state that there was only one baby. She felt the disappointment, but also the disbelief.
Until the day of the delivery, she expected two cries, two small bodies in her arms, but only Ashton came into the world. The present pulled her back when she felt Afonso’s touch. Honey, let’s leave this behind us.
You’ll seek help tomorrow. I’ll go with you if you want. He said, trying to end the conversation.
Penelope nodded with a slight movement of her head. Afonso turned off the bedside lamp and lay down again, falling asleep in a few minutes. But Penelope remained awake, staring at the dark ceiling.
Why did these dreams persist? Why did that pain, that sense of loss, never leave her? With her eyes burning with exhaustion, she promised herself that, at dawn, she would try to leave the past behind once and for all, and worry only about Ashton, her son, and great love, the only one she had. The following morning, the sun rose shyly, bathing the room in a soft golden light. Tired but determined, Penelope rose, dressed with her customary elegance, and kissed her sleeping husband’s forehead before descending for breakfast.
With everyone at the table, she asked, I’ll take Ashton to school and then head to the company. Will you join me? She said, adjusting her purse as Ashton at the table finished his breakfast. Afonso, already dressed in casual attire, smiled, though the smile didn’t quite reach his eyes.
I’ll be along a bit later, dear. I need to stop by my sister’s house first. Upon hearing this, Ashton’s expression immediately darkened.
A quick, discreet frown betrayed his discomfort. Penelope, busy, didn’t notice, but Afonso saw and pretended to ignore it. A few minutes later, mother and son departed.
As soon as the sound of the car faded away, Afonso dropped his mask of serenity. His face hardened into a dark, severe expression. He picked up the phone with trembling hands, dialed a familiar number, and when the call was answered, spoke in a low voice, laden with tension.
Penelope is having these dreams about twin children more and more often. I fear she might somehow discover what happened on the day of Ashton’s birth. He paused, glancing around as if fearing someone might overhear him, even though he was alone.
I’m on my way there. We need to talk. I need your help to get this story out of her head before it’s too late.
Without waiting for a response, he abruptly hung up the phone. Afonso grabbed his car keys with quick movements and walked out the front door, his heart racing and his mind in turmoil. The secret he had struggled so hard to bury seemed, little by little, to be emerging from the depths, and if it came to light, everything he had achieved would crumble like a house of cards.
A few hours later, at Ashton’s school, while the establishment throbbed with the rhythm of learning, the young millionaire found himself distant, lost in thought. His vacant gaze stared at the blackboard, but his mind was far away. The teacher, noticing his distraction, gently called his attention.
Ashton, is everything alright? You seem distracted today. She said, approaching his desk. The boy quickly looked up and replied, Sorry, teacher.
I didn’t sleep well last night, he said, forcing a smile. The teacher, knowing him well as one of the institution’s best students, simply nodded, deciding to overlook the lapse in attention. Ashton tried to refocus on the lesson, but it was like trying to hold water in his hands.
The image of the previous day kept intruding into his mind. The face of the dirty boy, so identical to his own, wouldn’t leave his thoughts. How could there be someone so like him? When the recess bell rang, the young millionaire got up quickly, almost running over his classmates.
He was walking towards the courtyard when Hazel, his classmate and best friend, ran after him. Ashton, wait up, she called, breathless. The boy stopped and turned to face his friend.
Hazel looked at him with concern. What’s going on? You’re acting strange today. You haven’t even spoken to me properly.
Is it because of what you saw your father doing? She asked, lowering her voice. Ashton looked around, making sure no one was listening. He took his friend’s hand and pulled her to a more private corner of the courtyard.
It’s not about my father, he said, looking at the ground. It’s something else. Something that happened yesterday.
Something bizarre. Hazel’s eyes gleamed with curiosity. What? Tell me, she pleaded, almost begging.
Ashton took a deep breath and said, I saw a boy who looked just like me. Hazel frowned. Like a doppelganger? That’s normal.
My mom said everyone has several doppelgangers in the world. People who look like us. She said, trying to understand.
No, Hazel. You don’t understand. It wasn’t just similar.
It was identical. Same height. Same eyes.
Same hair. Even the voice was similar. The boy explained.
The girl’s eyes widened, intrigued. Except he was all dirty. He looked like he lived on the street.
Actually, I don’t know if he lived on the street. But his clothes were torn. He was just like me.
But it was like he was living a completely different life. Like a parallel universe, you know? Ashton finished, still stunned. His friend crossed her arms and bowed her head, thoughtful.
Are you sure? Exactly alike? She asked, trying to process it. Ashton nodded quickly. I am.
Absolutely. He was identical. And what did you do? Hazel asked, intrigued.
Ashton told how he had found the boy in front of the party hall, how they had tried to talk, and how Luke, startled when he heard Penelope’s voice, had fled before they could exchange many words. Wait a second, Hazel exclaimed, putting the pieces together. So you’re telling me that you might have a twin brother living on the streets? Ashton scratched his head, confused.
I don’t know. My mom always said I’m an only child. But it’s all very strange.
I swear he was identical to me, Hazel. He admitted. The girl, filled with determination, crossed her arms.
You need to find this boy again, Ashton. Find out who he is. She said firmly.
Ashton sighed, defeated. But how? I don’t even know where he lives. I only know his name.
Luke. Hazel smiled, her mind already working at full speed. Why don’t you go back to the place where you found him? Maybe he’ll be around there again.
If he’s homeless, he might be sheltering near there. And even if he’s just a boy who got dirty, he must live nearby. She suggested, excited.
Ashton thought for a moment. That’s a good idea. But how am I going to get back there? My parents would never let me go out alone, especially to look for a stranger, even if he’s a child.
He said, worried. He also confessed that he had thought about telling his mother about Luke, but had given up for fear of not being taken seriously. Hazel smiled even wider.
Leave it to me. Do this. Ask your mom to let you spend the afternoon at my house.
Then we’ll make up an excuse and my driver will take us there. Theodore does everything I ask. She laughed, in a mischievous way.
Ashton felt hope reborn within him. He extended his hand to his friend and smiled. Deal.
Meanwhile, in another part of the city, Luke’s reality was quite different. The boy, his stomach rumbling with hunger, rummaged through trash cans in search of something he could eat. He turned one over, then another, and another.
All empty, or with remains that cannot be used. With a sorrowful sigh, Luke sat on the sidewalk, hugging his knees to protect himself from the cold that morning. His mind went back to the day before.
He thought about the trash cans in the party room, which must have been full of good food that had been thrown away. He also thought about the boy who was just like him. Ashton.
I should have taken some food yesterday, he muttered to himself, regretful. He distinctly remembered the female voice that had sent him scurrying away. Ever since he was little, he had learned to fear adults.
He knew that, for children like him, being taken to a shelter was worse than living on the streets. In a shelter, he would lose his freedom and could be mistreated, as he had been before. Luke paused for a moment, ruminating on the unusual encounter.
Then an idea sprang into his tired mind. What if I go back there? Maybe there’s still food in the bins, and maybe I’ll see that boy again, he said to himself, with a spark of hope. Hauling himself up from the ground, Luke clenched his fists and decided that he would return to the street where the banquet hall was.
Something inside him told him that the encounter hadn’t been just a coincidence. Something was about to happen. Back at Ashton’s school, the young millionaire was anxiously watching the clock affixed to the classroom wall.
Each second felt like an eternity. He mentally counted down the time until noon, the moment he would leave the room and embark on the mission he had planned with Hazel. The hand finally reached the number twelve, and as soon as the bell rang, Ashton glanced at his friend, exchanging a complicit smile with her.
They both quickly got up and walked together towards the door. Before leaving, the boy ran up to the teacher. I promise I’ll be more attentive tomorrow, Professor, he said with an awkward smile.
The teacher smiled and nodded understandingly. At the school gate, Hazel quickly spotted Theodore’s black car, her personal driver, and ran towards it. Wait a little, Theodore.
Ashton is coming to my house today. He just needs to let his mother know, she said excitedly. The driver, already accustomed to the girl’s unusual requests, smiled and nodded.
Hazel ran back to Ashton, who was waiting for his mother to arrive. However, it was Afonso, the boy’s father, who appeared, accompanied by Michelle, his sister. Upon seeing them, Ashton’s expression automatically darkened.
Something inside him stirred every time he saw Afonso, and even more so when Michelle was around. With a fake smile, Michelle bent down, hugging Ashton tightly. Lovely nephew, I’ve missed you so much.
I came to pick you up from school today. Are you happy? she said in a saccharine voice. Ashton remained rigid in the hug, not returning it.
Afonso, on the other hand, was direct and curt. Get in the car, Ashton. I’m in a hurry, he ordered, his voice firm.
The boy took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. I’m not going, he said, facing his father with courage. Afonso’s expression tightened even further.
He crossed his arms and raised his voice. What do you mean you’re not going? Your mother is in an important meeting, and I came to pick you up. Let’s go now.
Move. Get in the car. Realizing that the situation could get out of control and put the plan at risk, Hazel intervened quickly.
It’s not like that, Mr. Afonso, she said, smiling politely. Ashton just meant to say that he’s having lunch at my house today. We have a school project to work on together.
The boy quickly agreed. That’s right, dad. Afonso looked at the girl with disdain, clearly suspicious.
He turned his gaze back to his son and said, I don’t know. Your mother asked me to take you straight home. He paused and crossed his arms.
And another thing, I don’t like this friendship you have with that girl. You should make friends with boys, play football, do boy things. You’re always at that girl’s house.
Ashton lowered his eyes, embarrassed. Before any response could be given, Michelle placed her hand on Afonso’s shoulder and spoke with a forced smile. Stop being so rough, Afonso.
Let the boy go. What’s the harm? Besides, they’re going to work on a school project. It’s better to let him go.
Penelope values Ashton’s studies more than anything. Afonso huffed, defeated. All right, he said reluctantly.
What time should I pick you up? Hazel, ever quick, replied before Ashton could open his mouth. No need to worry. As soon as we finish the work, Theodore will take Ashton home.
Afonso nodded slowly, still displeased. He bent down to hug his son, but Ashton only gave him a quick, unenthusiastic hug. Then he ran towards Theodore’s car, where Hazel was already waiting for him.
From afar, Afonso watched the two get into the car, his face filled with disapproval. I don’t like that friendship, Michelle. When I was his age, all I cared about was playing soccer with the boys, he commented, shaking his head.
Michelle laughed loudly and said, Oh, Afonso, please. Worried about what the child is doing? I bet those two will end up dating one day. And look on the bright side.
The girl is the daughter of millionaires, too. You should be grateful. It would be bad if he were hanging around with some slum brat.
She winked at him mischievously. Now forget about it. Let’s worry about what really matters.
Penelope. I’m going to talk to her and get this twin children’s story out of her head once and for all. After all, am I a good sister-in-law or not? She said, laughing.
Afonso approached and said, the best. They got into the car and before leaving, Afonso commented with a sly smile. Since I’m not taking Ashton home, we could take advantage of it to enjoy ourselves a little.
Michelle leaned towards him and with a seductive look replied. Of course, my love. They kissed, making it clear that their bond of brotherhood was nothing more than a facade.
Meanwhile, in Theodore’s car, Hazel and Ashton exchanged excited glances. The driver followed the usual route until Hazel leaned forward and said, Theodore, could you change the route? Please take us to the Peach District’s party hall. The driver looked in the rearview mirror, confused.
Your parents told me to take you home, Hazel, and you have a friend with you. The girl smiled with her persuasive manner. Please, Theodore, I just want to stop by the hall to inquire about the date for my 13th birthday party.
My parents are so busy lately and I’d really like it to be there. You have no idea how popular that place is. Ashton looked at her in admiration, impressed by his friend’s cleverness.
Theodore sighed, defeated by the girl’s charm. All right, but no funny business. If I lose my job, it’ll be your fault, he said, pretending to be angry.
Hazel laughed and replied. You’re the best driver in the world, Theodore. Ashton smiled, relieved.
But before we continue and find out if Ashton will reunite with Luke and what their true relationship is, help our channel by clicking like. And tell me, would you like to have a twin? And if you did, would you switch places with him or her to play a prank on someone? Also, tell me what city you’re watching this video from so I can leave a heart on your comment. Now back to our story.
Penelope was in her office, immersed in a stack of papers and documents. Her focus was entirely on scheduling all the week’s activities, organizing meetings, evaluating proposals, and planning the launch of new products for her cosmetics network. As she flipped through some folders, she heard light knocks on the door.
Come in, she said, without looking up from the documents. The door opened and Afonso appeared with a carefree smile on his face. Penelope stood up immediately, and her expression softened slightly upon seeing him.
Hi, honey, she said, walking over to him. Did you pick up Ashton from school? Did you take him home? Afonso kept the smile on his face and replied, Ashton went to a friend’s house. That girl, Hazel, he said they had schoolwork to do.
Penelope frowned, surprised. That’s strange. I don’t remember him mentioning anything about schoolwork, she commented thoughtfully.
Then she shook her head and smiled. But that’s fine. I like Hazel and her family.
Following that, the naughty husband quickly changed the subject. I brought a surprise for you, he said excitedly. A surprise? Penelope asked, curious.
Before she could even think any possibilities, Michelle appeared in the doorway, beaming. Surprise, she exclaimed, opening her arms wide. My lovely sister-in-law.
Penelope walked over to her and hugged her warmly, completely oblivious to the fact that Michelle wasn’t Afonso’s sister, but his lover. It’s so good to see you, Michelle, Penelope said genuinely. Michelle smiled and without wasting a moment began to speak.
Afonso told me you’ve been having a few little problems. Strange dreams, right? Penelope sighed and nodded in confirmation. That’s why I’m here, Michelle said enthusiastically.
You work too hard, sis, and it’s affecting your mind. That’s why today you’re taking the day off. We’re going to go out, relax, enjoy life.
And to top it all off, I booked a therapy session with a wonderful professional. You’re going to love it. Penelope hesitated, glancing at the table overflowing with documents.
Oh, I don’t know. I have so much work to do. Afonso approached and encouraged her.
Forget about it today, sweetheart. I’ll take care of everything. You deserve a day for yourself.
With a mixture of sighs and smiles, Penelope eventually relented. Before long, she left with Michelle, trying to relax while the other woman poured soft yet manipulative words into her ears, attempting to completely bury any uncomfortable memories the businesswoman had about the sensation that, in the past, she had been pregnant with twins. Meanwhile, Ashton and Hazel were on their adventure, searching for Luke, the boy with the same features as the wealthy young boy.
Theodore parked the car in front of the large banquet hall in the Peach District. The preteens quickly jumped out, their eyes alert, scanning every corner in search of Luke. But the street was deserted.
No sign of the boy. Ashton crossed his arms and muttered, It was to be expected. I guess he wasn’t coming back.
Hazel, trying to maintain her enthusiasm, smiled and said, Calm down, Ashton. Let’s try to buy some time. I’ll go inside and pretend I want information about my birthday party.
She entered the hall while Ashton stayed outside, his eyes fixed on any movement. Hazel took a few minutes, asking about dates, feigning interest in the party packages. Outside, Ashton sighed, looking around in all directions without success.
Time passed, and Luke was nowhere to be seen. Finally, the girl left the hall, seeing the discouragement on her friend’s face. Let’s keep trying.
We’ll find him eventually, she said, determined. They walked back to the car. Theodore, already restless, remarked, What took you so long? Hazel smiled and replied, The reception hall is so beautiful that I didn’t want to leave.
My party is going to be a fairy tale, Theodore. The driver chuckled and started the car. He began to drive slowly down the quiet street.
Ashton rested his head against the window, discouraged. His eyes scanned the sidewalks almost automatically, without hope. It was then that he saw him.
It’s him! Ashton exclaimed, pointing to the end of the street where a boy was rummaging through a trash can. Hazel’s eyes widened. Theodore, stop the car! She shouted.
The driver braked abruptly, startled. What’s going on? He asked, concerned. I forgot to ask something about my party.
Hazel improvised, already opening the door and pulling Ashton with her. Theodore, astonished, watched the two of them run down the sidewalk, but didn’t have time to stop them. From inside the car, he observed, frowning as he realized that they weren’t going back into the reception hall, but were heading towards a dirty boy who rummaged through the trash.
Ashton caught up to Luke and touched his shoulder. Luke! He called out, hopefully. The boy turned around, startled.
For a moment, his eyes reflected fear, but upon recognizing Ashton, a spontaneous smile spread across his face. Hazel, seeing the two side by side, put her hand to her mouth in shock. My God, you’re identical.
She whispered. Ashton, trying to reassure Luke, said, There’s no need to be afraid. Hazel is my friend.
You can trust her. Then the young millionaire took a deep breath and asked, Why did you run away yesterday? Luke, ashamed, replied, I don’t like adults. Whenever they get close, they try to take me to some shelter.
Ashton nodded, understanding. He didn’t want to scare him. Where do you live? He asked.
Luke shrugged. On the street. Those words struck the young millionaire deeply.
Hazel, still in shock, asked gently, Don’t you have parents? Luke lowered his gaze sadly. No, I was found in a trash can as a baby. Some homeless people raised me.
But they died. I’ve been alone ever since. Ashton’s heart ached.
He looked at Luke and felt a connection that went far beyond physical similarity. Something there was stronger. They sat on the sidewalk, away from the bustle, trying to find a moment of peace amidst the whirlwind of emotions they were feeling.
Luke, his eyes downcast and his voice choked, began to tell his story. He spoke of the cold nights, of how he had to protect himself from the rain with only pieces of cardboard. He told about the days when he couldn’t find anything to eat, the times he hid to avoid being forcibly taken to shelters where he knew he would suffer even more.
Ashton and Hazel, who came from completely different realities, listened in silence, their hearts heavy. The pain was almost physical. They knew that people experienced hardship.
But seeing it in person, right in front of them, a child like them suffering so much was heartbreaking. With tears welling up in his eyes, Ashton reached out his hand and said, You’re not alone anymore, Luke. We’re going to help you.
Hazel excitedly stood up quickly and added, That’s right. You’re coming with us. We’ll figure something out.
Luke smiled faintly, but the sad look remained. He knew that those two were just children, good children, but without the power to change what adults decided. Sighing, he said, You can’t do anything.
My life is here and it’s okay. I’m used to it. Silence fell over them, broken only by the distant sounds of the city.
Hazel, feeling the need to do something, reached out to try and comfort him. And that’s when, through a hole in Luke’s torn shirt, she saw something that made her freeze. What are you doing? Luke asked, startled as Hazel gently pulled at his shirt.
Hazel pointed with her finger, her voice thick with emotion. Look at that. You have a birth mark exactly like Ashton’s.
Ashton approached, observing closely. It’s true. I have a birth mark exactly the same, in the same place.
Look here, he said, surprised, also lifting his shirt. Hazel looked at the two of them, her eyes shining with disbelief. It can’t be a coincidence.
You’re twin brothers. There’s no other explanation. Luke’s eyes widened in confusion.
Twin brothers? What are you talking about? Ashton took a deep breath and explained. Today, before class, we were talking. We thought the only explanation for us being so alike was this.
And now, with this birth mark? But how? How can you be my brother, Luke? Hazel added. It’s strange because Mrs. Penelope always said she only had one child. But that birth mark? It’s too much of a coincidence.
The street kid ran his hands through his hair, trying to process everything. It can’t be. We just look alike, that’s all.
Everyone has a birth mark. He murmured, barely audible. His heart pounded erratically.
The idea of having a family, of not being alone, was too tempting, but also painful. What if it was just an empty hope? At that moment, hurried footsteps echoed on the sidewalk. They turned and saw Theodore, the driver, standing there, observing the scene with a shocked expression.
Upon seeing an adult, Luke instinctively backed away, ready to flee. Calm down, Luke, Ashton said, grabbing his arm. Let go of me.
He’s going to take me to a shelter. Luke shouted, the fear evident in his voice. Hazel approached and said quickly, Theodore is good.
He won’t do anything to you. Ashton confirmed, trying to convey confidence. Not all adults are bad, Luke.
Trust us. Theodore, still processing the scene, approached slowly and asked, What’s going on here? Who? Who is this boy? How? How does he look so much like your friend, Hazel? Ashton and Hazel took turns telling him everything. The encounter, the resemblance, the discovery of the birthmark.
The driver looked at Luke and then at Ashton, comparing every feature, every detail. Then he said, Your twins, I have no doubt. But how is that possible? I know Mrs. Penelope.
She always said she only had one son. Before they could delve deeper into the conversation, Luke’s stomach rumbled loudly, breaking the tense atmosphere. The boy lowered his head, embarrassed.
Theodore smiled understandingly. The answers can wait. Let’s put something in that little tummy first.
He guided everyone back to the car and drove to a small diner nearby. He bought sandwiches and sodas for everyone. When they received the food, Luke ate with a veracity that moved them all.
With each bite, his eyes sparkled, as if he were rediscovering the taste of life. Ashton and Hazel, with heavy hearts, watched in silence, feeling a mixture of sadness and hope. After they ate, sitting at a secluded table, Hazel asked, So what now? What do we do? Ashton looked at Luke and then at Theodore.
Now we take Luke to my mother. She needs to see him. Only she can confirm whether or not he’s my twin brother.
Luke swallowed, fear written all over his face. What if… What if they take me to a shelter? You don’t know what life is like there. He asked, his voice thick with emotion.
Theodore leaned forward and said firmly, Trust me, kid. Mrs. Penelope is a woman with a good heart. She would never do that.
Luke looked at Ashton, Hazel, and Theodore. There was sincerity in their eyes, a sincerity he hadn’t seen in a long time. With his heart racing, he finally nodded.
All right, I’ll go with you. Theodore smiled, relieved. Then let’s go.
The four of them got into the car. Luke shrank a little in the seat, used to the freedom of the streets, but at the same time feeling a strange sense of security. Ashton sat next to him, offering him a reassuring smile.
Hazel chattered on about how everything was going to work out, how she already envisioned them all having fun together at school. Theodore started the engine and drove towards Penelope’s mansion. On the way, everyone’s heart was racing, each one lost in their own thoughts.
What would happen when they arrived? What would the meeting be like? Was Luke really Ashton’s twin brother, or was it all just a huge and painful coincidence? The wind blew against the windows as if it also wanted to follow that story that was about to everyone’s lives forever. Meanwhile, Penelope, after a long afternoon touring the city with Michelle, finally arrived home. She sighed with relief as she walked through the mansion’s garden and commented, smiling, You were right, Michelle.
I really needed this afternoon to get these crazy ideas out of my head. The false sister-in-law, with that cynical smile that she mastered perfectly, replied, Now you have to focus on yourself and your only son, Ashton, the only one you carried in your womb. Penelope agreed with a slight nod.
Speaking of him, he should be arriving soon. Before she could finish the sentence, Michelle looked out the mansion window and saw Theodore’s car entering the garage. Speaking of my handsome nephew, look, he’s coming now, she said, forcing a tone of enthusiasm.
Outside, Theodore parked the car. Hazel turned to Ashton and gave him his final instructions. Go on, tell your mother that you have a new friend to introduce.
Then bring her out here. Ashton nodded, his heart pounding. Inside the car, Luke was trembling.
Hazel held his hand firmly. Everything will be all right, she said, smiling to comfort him. Ashton ran out of the car.
He walked into the house excitedly, passing by Michelle as if she were invisible. He ran straight to his mother and hugged her tightly. Hi, my love, Penelope said, embracing her son.
She pulled back slightly and asked, Where’s Hazel? Didn’t she want to come in? Ashton shook his head, excited. She’s out there with a new friend. You’ll love meeting him.
Penelope frowned. New friend? Before she could ask more, Ashton grabbed her hand and pulled her outside. Come on, Mom, you have to see.
Michelle, curious and with a strange discomfort growing in her chest, followed them. At that exact moment, Afonso’s car also entered the mansion’s garden. Afonso got out of the car with firm steps, frowning at the commotion.
He was still adjusting his suit jacket when he saw Hazel open the car door and Luke get out. Upon seeing the boy, Afonso froze. His face paled immediately.
He stood motionless, unable to conceal his shock. Ashton, full of enthusiasm, pointed at Luke and said, Mom, look! He looks just like me. Michelle brought her hand to her mouth, completely speechless.
Penelope, in turn, felt her heart race. His eyes fixed on Luke. Without saying a word, she began to walk toward the boy.
Each step seemed to weigh a ton. She stared intently at that dirty little face, at those blue eyes identical to hers and Ashton’s. When she finally got close, she knelt slowly in front of the boy.
She brought her trembling hand to his face, and at the touch, her eyes filled with tears. Luke also felt his eyes welling up. Without thinking, Penelope hugged him tightly against her chest, feeling the boy’s small, rapid heartbeat.
I knew it, she whispered. Her voice choked with emotion. In that instant, her mind was swept back twelve years.
Pregnant and newly married to Afonso, Penelope vividly remembered the sensation of carrying two beings inside her. She ran her hand over her belly and said, Honey, there are two. I’m sure of it.
Her husband, with that rehearsed smile, replied, We’ll find out tomorrow. She would smile, full of hope. Tomorrow is the ultrasound.
I can’t wait to see our little princes or princesses. They talked for a while longer, and Penelope, full of dreams, asked, When are you going to take me to see your company? We’re married now, and you always make up an excuse. If you hadn’t already taken me on so many trips and to such expensive restaurants, I’d say you were lying.
She laughed, teasing, certain that her husband was the truest man she had ever known. Afonso brushed it off, stating, Soon, my love. Life’s busy, but I promise I’ll show you everything.
She believed every word, suspecting nothing. She left a kiss on her husband’s cheek and went to work. As soon as Penelope left the house, Afonso grabbed his car keys and headed towards a modest apartment, where Michelle was waiting for him.
As he entered, he walked back and forth, running his hands over his head. I’m getting nervous. What if she finds out about everything? Michelle, lying on the sofa, laughed disdainfully.
She will find out, Afonso, sooner or later. And not even two children will save your theater. This time you tried to reel in a fish that was far too big.
You even spent all our money trying to impress Penelope. I just want to see what we’ll do after she exposes you. Afonso stopped and glared at her.
Not if I find a way first. There’s always a way. The man was a born con artist.
His life had always been based on scams. His marriage to Penelope was his most ambitious con yet. He presented himself as a major businessman, used dirty money from other smaller scams to maintain the facade, and now, with the pressure mounting, he needed an even more audacious plan.
And it was in this scenario that the most perverse idea arose in his mind. Sell one of the babies. If there are two, why not sell one? He thought aloud.
If the children took after their mother, they would be blonde with blue eyes, children desired by many wealthy families desperate for an heir. Michelle sat up, startled. Have you lost your mind? Are you trying to put a price on your own child, you maniac? Afonso, with a cold glint in his eyes, replied.
If it’s to maintain this life and secure our future, it’s what needs to be done. You know I’ve never cared about children, Michelle. My only love is you.
At the mansion’s gate, years later, Afonso watched the scene of Penelope embracing Luke, feeling his throat tighten. He knew his past was about to come to light. Penelope, still completely emotional, couldn’t stop hugging Luke.
It was as if, by touching him, she could finally fill the void she had carried in her heart for years. With each passing second, the invisible bond between them seemed to strengthen, growing in a way that words could not describe. My son, my son, she repeated, caressing Luke’s dirty face, feeling as though she never wanted to let him go again, as if the fear of losing him once more was ingrained in her soul.
Luke, with tearful eyes, looked at Penelope and asked, his voice choked with emotion. Am I… am I really your son? Before the millionaire could answer, Afonso hurried over, visibly disturbed. What are you doing, Penelope? He asked, trying to sound composed, but the tension in his voice was palpable.
She turned to him, still kneeling beside Luke, and said, Afonso, look at him! Look! He’s our son! He’s the baby I always knew existed within me! See how much he looks like Ashton! Ashton, excited, moved closer, standing beside his mother and Luke. The two boys, side by side, were the spitting image of each other, as if they were reflections. Afonso, his face paling, tried to maintain his composure.
You’re mistaken, my love. This boy doesn’t look like Ashton. They’re completely different.
Michelle, who was watching everything closely, almost stammering, supported Afonso. That’s right. Penelope, you’re seeing things.
Look more closely. They’re very different. Afonso insisted.
You only had one child. I saw the ultrasound. I remember perfectly.
One baby. Just one. Michelle stepped forward, trying to appeal to Penelope’s reason.
Think about everything we discussed today, sister-in-law. You yourself said you were getting carried away by nonsensical ideas. This boy isn’t your son.
He’s just any street kid, blonde like Ashton, but nothing more. Afonso, seeing that gentle words weren’t working, attempted to take a more drastic approach. He took a step forward, trying to snatch Luke from Penelope’s arms.
Leave this boy. He’s not our son. He belongs to the street.
He’s all dirty. How could a brat like this be our son, Penelope? But Penelope held Luke even tighter, protecting him as a lioness would protect her cub. No! She cried, tears streaming down her face.
He is my son. I don’t know how, but he is. I always felt that something was missing, and now I know.
Ashton, his eyes shining with emotion, stepped closer and said, Mom, look at the birthmark. We have the same birthmark. We’re exactly alike.
Penelope, still embracing Luke, looked at the birthmark on his stomach, feeling a mixture of happiness and confusion. But how is this possible? She asked, almost to herself. Afonso lost control again, his voice coming out harsh.
That kid is filthy. He’s not our son. It was then that Ashton, emboldened, turned on his father.
You are filthy, sir. Filthy for kissing Michelle behind Mom’s back. Penelope stood still.
Ashton’s words echoed in her mind. She looked at Afonso, then Michelle, confused, trying to understand. What do you mean, Ashton? What are you talking about, son? She asked, her voice almost breaking.
Afonso, enraged, pointed a finger at his son. Shut your mouth, you little punk. Show some respect.
I’m your father. But Ashton was undeterred. With a steady voice, he continued.
I saw it, Mom. I saw them kissing. And then Dad threatened me never to tell.
That’s why I started distancing myself from him. Penelope brought her hand to her mouth, feeling the world spin around her, as if the ground were about to vanish beneath her feet. Michelle tried to intervene, her voice trembling.
This is preposterous. I’m Afonso’s sister. But Hazel, astute, jumped into the conversation without hesitation.
That’s a lie. Ashton and I did some research. You don’t even have the same last name.
We even took a picture of your IDs. You think you’re smart, but we’re much smarter. Penelope’s eyes widened.
I’ve never seen her ID. She murmured, more to herself than anyone else. Ashton turned to Michelle and said with a mocking tone.
Show us your ID and call my mother’s as if you’re really my father’s sister. Michelle was left with no way out. Afonso tried to come up with some excuse, but Michelle, desperate, exploded, her loud voice echoing through the walls of the mansion.
Fine, I’ll tell you everything. She screamed. But only if you give me a good amount of money, Penelope.
I’ll tell you everything you need to know. Even who is this kid you’re hugging really is. Give me some money, and I’ll tell you everything and disappear.
Afonso spun around to face her, livid. Shut your mouth, you imbecile. Michelle, now panicking, shouted.
You’re the imbecile, Afonso. It’s all your fault. If you hadn’t had the dreadful idea of selling your own son, none of this would have happened.
Silence fell like a bomb. Penelope stood paralyzed, feeling the blood run cold in her veins. Her heart seemed to have stopped for a moment.
Sell his own son? She repeated in shock, each word weighing heavier than the last. Afonso looked at Michelle, then at Penelope, his eyes filled with hatred, like a cornered animal. Penelope slowly stood up, still holding Luke with one arm.
She walked towards Afonso, each step heavy with pain, rage, and a cutting disappointment. What have you done, Afonso? What is this story about selling our son? She asked, her voice breaking, feeling as if all the love she once held for him was disintegrating there, faced with the cruel truth that was being revealed. The man, cornered, knew he couldn’t hide the truth for much longer.
And in that moment, the perfect life he pretended to have built began to crumble before his eyes. He tried to deny it, stammering, disjointed words, but at that moment, Penelope wanted only the truth. Without a second thought, she tore a diamond necklace from her neck, worth a veritable fortune, and placed it in Michelle’s hands.
Tell everything, and if you tell the truth, you’ll earn much more, she said, her voice firm, staring Michelle in the eyes. Afonso, realizing what was about to happen, tried to leap onto the false sister to prevent her from speaking, but Theodore, alert, was faster. He jumped on Afonso, immobilizing him forcefully.
Penelope looked steadily at Michelle and ordered, Tell the truth, now! Michelle, trembling between greed and fear, looked at Afonso, who was struggling uselessly under Theodore weight, and sighed. Forgive me, darling, she said with false sweetness. But you know how I love diamonds.
Then the snake began to reveal the entire dark plot. She told about how Afonso had deceived her from the start, presenting himself as a great businessman. Then she explained how he had conspired with a corrupt doctor to lie during the ultrasound, saying that Penelope was carrying only one baby.
He took you to give birth in a hospital involved in a dirty baby-selling scheme, Michelle revealed. You were drugged, and when you woke up, you believed you had only had one child. Tears ran freely down Penelope’s face.
The pain of knowing that her suspicions, her recurring dreams, were real, tore her apart. How… how did he end up on the streets? She asked, her voice trembling. Michelle lowered her eyes.
Soon after the sale, there was a police raid. The buyer panicked, abandoned Luke in a dumpster to avoid being arrested. We thought he had died, but that kid seems to have done well on the streets.
Penelope felt the world collapse. Her son, her little one, had been thrown away as if he were trash. The money from the sale, Michelle continued, was used by Afonso to forge a front company, deceiving you and infiltrating your business.
At that moment, rage consumed Penelope. She stood up, and with a cry of pain and fury, lunged at Afonso, delivering slaps and punches. You monster! You scoundrel! You’re going to pay for this! You’re going to jail! She screamed beside herself.
Theodore intervened, carefully separating them. Michelle, seeing the chaos, tried to negotiate. Now that I’ve told you everything, I want more jewelry.
You promised. Come on, sis-in-law. How about a diamond necklace? I know you have a beautiful one.
She demanded, with greed in her eyes. Penelope, her breathing ragged, took her cell phone out of her pocket and showed it to everyone. It’s all recorded, you snake.
The entire confession. Both of you are going to jail. You won’t get another cent of my money.
Not even that necklace you’re holding. Michelle was furious. You tricked me! I told you everything! I deserve it! Penelope responded with coldness.
The only thing you deserve is to rot in jail. At that moment, Michelle tried to flee, running towards the door. But before she could take two steps, sirens echoed in the garden.
The police had arrived. Hazel, radiant, raised her cell phone and said, I was the one who called the police. The officers entered swiftly, handcuffing Afonso and Michelle.
Both were taken away, still protesting uselessly. Days later, during the trial, they were sentenced to many years in prison for all their crimes. Penelope, with her heart in pieces but determined, took a DNA test to formalize Luke’s custody.
As expected, the test confirmed what her mother’s heart already knew. Luke was her son. Luke finally found the family he had always dreamed of.
He now had a loving mother, a brother, clean clothes, hot food, and the sincere affection of Hazel, the smartest friend he could wish for. Over time, the pain gave place to hope. Penelope found love again, this time with Theodore, the man who had always been by her side in the worst moments, showing that true love is not based on appearances or status, but rather on truth and transparency.
The new family lived happily, overcoming every obstacle with love and courage. And Penelope more than ever proved to the world that a mother’s heart is never wrong, because she always knew that there was another son in the world.