Chapter 1512

At the hospital, Anastasia’s bandages were freshly applied. Looking at her father, busy attending to her, she said, “Dad, I’m okay, truly.” Cameron sat beside her bed, gazing at her tenderly.

“I know.”

“You’re still—”

“You need to rest.”

Cameron said, “Just rest well and stop worrying. I’ll take care of everything.”

“Dad…” She moved her lips, starting to speak, then paused thoughtfully, changing her mind.

“What’s the matter?” Cameron asked gently. In that moment, he was simply a loving father, not the stern Secretary Rollins.

“Nothing.” She smiled. “Sorry, I made you worry.”

“Silly girl, there’s nothing to apologize for.” He adjusted her blanket.

Anastasia didn’t need hospitalization, but Cameron insisted she rest while the doctor conducted further observations. The doctor, naturally, obliged.

“Dad, I’ve worried you my whole life. I even complained about you not spending enough time with me, but the truth is, you’ve done so much. I’m truly sorry!” She spoke earnestly, her recent awareness of the gossip about her father weighing heavily. After Fabian and Maria’s interference, she realized she’d unfairly blamed him for neglecting her, overlooking his own lack of companionship.

It was likely he’d remained single for her sake, compensating for her mother’s absence with unwavering love.

Aunt Maria was partly right: a man might neglect his child after remarriage. That’s why my father hasn’t sought a new wife, to spare me the pain. If he finds someone, I shouldn’t stop him.

“You’re my daughter; who else should I care for? You’re my responsibility,” Cameron said casually, a faint smile playing on his lips. His usually serious face softened remarkably.

“Dad, you’re so good to me!” Anastasia’s eyes welled with tears.

“Silly girl!” He gently dabbed away her tears with a tissue. “Have a good rest. I know it hasn’t been easy for you lately, either.”

“Dad…” She grasped his hand as he rose.

“Yes?” He turned, a questioning look on his face.

“If…” She blushed, hesitant, but continued. “If you’ve found a suitable woman… I’d be okay with it! I’m grown, I can take care of myself. I just want you to be happy!”

Cameron paused, a slight frown creasing his brow. “Did you hear people gossiping?”

“No!” Anastasia shook her head. “I don’t care if it’s true or not; I just want you to be happy.”

Cameron’s frown softened, replaced by tenderness. “With you by my side, I’ve always been happy!” He gently stroked her hair. “Don’t think too much. Rest is what you need now.”

“Okay!” Anastasia nodded contentedly.

As Cameron was about to leave, he saw Lily standing at the doorway, holding a bag and a thermos. Seeing him, she started.

“M-Mr. Rollins.” Having not interacted formally, she found “Secretary Rollins” too stiff.