Chapter 13 - A Tender Family Moment Shared in the Estate
By evening, the storm outside the estate had cleared, leaving the Chicago skyline glittering under a blanket of fresh snow.
Inside the third-floor family suite, Lily sat at a small wooden table coloring pictures with crayons Nathaniel had bought her.
There was no fear in her eyes tonight, only the carefree joy of a four-year-old child who knew she was safe.
A gentle knock echoed against the door, and Nathaniel walked in carrying a tray of warm hot chocolate and pastries.
“May I join this art class?” Nathaniel asked with a warm, genuine smile that completely transformed his face.
Lily giggled, holding up a bright blue crayon and offering it to the billionaire businessman without hesitation.
I watched from the window as the formidable head of Cross Meridian sat cross-legged on the carpet, drawing a clumsy dog.
For the first time in years, the hollow ache in my chest from my past began to truly heal.
“You’re very good at this, Mr. Cross,” Lily declared seriously, handing him a yellow star sticker.
May you like
“Call me Nathaniel, sweetheart,” he replied softly, sticking the yellow star proudly onto his dark suit lapel.
***
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