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“This is your secretary, I presume? I want her actively involved in every step of this project and future ones.”
I still hadn’t gotten a solid schedule for her yet. But whatever it would be, I knew I had to balance it out. My daughter’s well-being was a priority.
I made my presence known with a single tap of my feet.
“Good morning, sir.” She greeted softly.
I didn't miss how her eyes were on anything but mine. I nodded, brushing past her to where Sophie was seated.
Her hand still held the coloring pencil when I lowered myself beside the table.
“Sweetheart, we’re going to the park today. Okay?”
I was met with no response. Her eyes remained blank.
“Do you want to go to the park?” I rephrased. There still was no response.
“Daddy wants to spend the day with you.”
Nothing.
Slowly, I reached out to rub her cheeks. “It's okay, Sophie. Give daddy a hug?”
Instantly, she stood up, turned around, and sank into my chest. I pressed her even closer. This was my favorite part of life. Where she'd melt in my arms, and I'd momentarily forget all other things.
As usual, I felt her clutch my shirt tighter before she heaved a subtle sigh. My heart ached at this. I pressed my nose further into her hair as warmth seeped through my skin.
One day… just one day, Sophie, I'll have you back.
Placing a kiss on her hair, I pulled back before standing. Then, I lifted her into my arms, with one arm supporting her mid-thigh. She rested her head against my shoulders.
I turned to Evie. “Get ready, Sophie’s going to the park.”
She nodded. After a few minutes, we were ready. I decided to drive my Audi Q4 e-Tron. Clenching my fist against the wheel, I revved out of the gates. There was only one wish I had.
For Sophie to speak.
When we got to the park, there weren't many people. Just a few kids and adults, perfect for Sophie. It was what the morning offered— just the right crowd to make Sophie feel comfortable.
It was routine.
Evie set up a white picnic blanket under a shady tree. She chose a tree that wasn't too close and, at the same time, close enough for interaction. I was impressed, but I quickly let it go. She was trained for this. There was nothing special about what she did.
We settled on the blanket with Sophie between me…and Evie opposite us. I watched as Evie brought out different items for activities.
A storybook and color book. An empty drawing sheet. Sophie’s favorite toy, a train toy for when her repetitive behavior kicks in. And… an unknown item.
I ignored it.
Usually, it was one of three things. The nanny or I would read Sophie a book, let her draw, or let her play with her toy, depending on which she wanted.
“Sophie, do y—”
“Sophie, I brought something different this time,” Evie smiled.
I pressed my lips into a thin line, watching how she stared at Sophie.
The sun took this moment to dapper through the leaves, illuminating her hazel eyes. It was…captivating the flecks of gold that appeared in them. Somehow, they pronounced her slightly red lips. Was she wearing lipstick or was that her natural color?
