Chapter 1050: Just a Look

Lucian strode from the Farwell main residence, Estella in his arms. Sonya fumed, watching her son take Estella away, but powerless to intervene.

Driving home, Lucian glanced in the rearview mirror. Estella sat quietly in her car seat, her eyes still red and swollen from crying; she clung tightly to her stuffed animal. His heart ached, and he resolved to make amends.

At home, Lucian carried Estella inside and gently placed her on the couch. He crouched beside her, his expression softening. "Essie, you're safe here. You don't have to return to Grandma's if you don't want to."

Estella nodded slowly, her small hands gripping her stuffed animal tighter. "I don't want to go back, Daddy," she whispered.

Lucian's heart broke. He hugged her gently. "You won't have to, sweetheart. I'll make sure of it."

Over the next few days, Lucian arranged for a home tutor and regular sessions with James, their trusted psychologist. Estella gradually settled into her new routine, though she still sometimes withdrew.

One evening, working late in his study, Lucian heard a soft knock. "Come in," he called, looking up from his papers.

Estella peeked in. "Daddy, can I stay with you for a while?"

Lucian smiled warmly. "Of course, Essie. Come here."

She approached, clutching her stuffed animal, and climbed onto his lap. Lucian embraced her, feeling her small weight against him. They sat in silence, finding comfort in each other's presence.

"Daddy, do you think Mommy will ever come back?" Estella's whisper held both hope and fear.

He sighed, unable to give her the answer she wanted. "I don't know, Essie. But no matter what, I'll always be here for you. I promise."

Estella nodded, seemingly accepting his answer. She nestled closer, and Lucian felt a sense of peace. The road ahead wouldn't be easy, but with Estella by his side, he was ready.

As days turned into weeks, Estella improved. She opened up more in her sessions with James, and her tutor reported good progress. Lucian spent as much time as possible with her, showering her with love and security.

One afternoon, playing in the garden, Estella looked up with a shy smile. "Daddy, thank you for taking care of me."

A lump formed in Lucian's throat. He hugged her tightly. "You're my little girl, Essie. I'll always take care of you."

In that moment, Lucian realized how much his daughter meant to him. She was his world, and he would do anything to protect and make her happy. Holding her close, he silently vowed to never let anything or anyone come between them again.