Seren was thrilled to learn they would be staying with Kalix. Her cheerful smile stayed intact as she continued to talk to her father inside the car, telling him about her plans.
"Daddy, can you take us to the amusement park? My friend Nathan used to tell me that hanging out with your parents is fun. Will you also give me cotton candy and balloons?" She made her request, her green doe-like eyes fixed intently on her father, who responded with a nod of approval.
"Of course we will do everything you say," Seren responded with a shriek as she continued munching on the chocolate bar.
Winter observed the father-daughter duo quietly from the sidelines. She may have chosen to stay with Kalix, but the choice was made entirely for the sake of their daughter. She may not be prepared for any relationship, yet she found it impossible to keep Seren from her father.
Seeing her daughter more content than before brought her immense joy and that's what mattered.
The journey continued for an additional twenty minutes, carrying them away from the lively city and into the serene mountains.
Kalix's penthouse was situated at the top, with the property was secured by armed personnel.
Winter was reluctant to reveal the harsher realities of life to Seren, yet she had already encountered the gunmen when Sylvester arrived at the hotel. She thought that Seren would be scared of the real guns, but she wasn't. This was also why she did not resist the idea of moving in with him.
Once Winter recognized Kalix's abilities, she felt a sense of relief knowing they were safe, allowing her to concentrate on locating her grandfather's attackers.
As they neared the grand gates of the penthouse, the car decelerated.
Both Seren and Winter were amazed by the grandeur of the massive estate. Every corner was secured, and as they approached the house, a man in a black suit swiftly reached out to open the door.
Winter felt a sense of hesitation initially, but eventually stepped out of the car and gazed at their new home. The word felt trite to her, yet Kalix stood beside her, cradling Seren in one hand while the other gently reached to grasp hers.
"Welcome home, Angel," he said, offering a charming smile, and Winter felt her breath catch in her throat.
The phrases were foreign to her because she was never welcomed in her own family home. Aside from her grandfather, everyone regarded her as an outsider, hardly acknowledging her existence. Therefore, when Kalix uttered those words, she was moved to tears.
'Could it truly be her home?' she pondered.
Winter averted its gaze and blinked, ensuring Kalix remained unaware before giving a nod.
As they entered the house, a man in a black suit, identified by his name tag as James, promptly recognized their presence and offered a warm greeting.
"Greetings, Madam and young Miss. I am James, the butler of this house." The man inclined his head with respect as he introduced himself.
Winter looked at Kalix, who remained unfazed as the man acknowledged her. She was still not their madam, and witnessing him not correcting the old man left her feeling uneasy.
"You can call me Winter. Madame is quite old-fashioned." Winter intervened on his behalf, catching the man off guard as he shared a glance with Kalix, cautiously seeking his approval.
"Do whatever your madam says," Kalix said, and the old man nodded.
"Yes, Madam Winter," James said, leaving Winter speechless.
Seren, excited to make her introduction, released her father's arm and stood herself in front of James. She inclined her head gently, mirroring his gesture, and introduced herself.
"Greetings, Grandpa James. My name is Seren, but my parents call me Star," she added, eliciting a smile from the old man.
He observed the remarkable likeness between the girl and the master, and it soon became clear to him that the rumor of him having a child was indeed accurate.
James, as the oldest staff member, was quite familiar with his master's cold and indifferent demeanor. A person who had never shown any interest in women suddenly became a parent. It was something they found hard to believe, but now everything seemed clear to them.
Their master was not only captivated by the lady, but he could also perceive the deep affection he had for their child.
The old man thought to himself, 'At last, a glimmer of hope.'
James continued to introduce the other staff of the house, one of whom was his wife, who also served as the head chef of the house.
Winter politely greeted everyone, and Seren did the same.
"Boss, there's a call from the informer." Sean's voice suddenly caught Kalix's attention, prompting them to step away from the others.
"What is it?" he inquired, gazing intently at his assistant.
"The assailant is none other than Richard Wilson, a former board member of Grayson International," he said, further informing. " Byron reportedly dismissed him a few days ago due to his connection to money laundering. I believe he was there to seek revenge," Sean revealed, prompting Kalix to reflect on his statement.
He remembered the event that captured public attention. Despite taking swift actions, it ultimately impacted their shares, resulting in a significant loss for the company. But then suddenly, a thought occurred.
"Isn't this Wilson one of David's closest subordinates?" he asked, observing Sean nod in agreement.
"I'll look into it more," Sean said, leaving no room for doubt about his assignment.
Kalix harbored uncertainties, yet he required evidence to maintain his stand. By the time he returned, Winter had seen the house.
While Seren engaged in conversation with Julian, sharing her food cravings, he gradually shifted his attention towards Winter.
"Come, let me show you my room," he whispered, sliding his hand down to hold hers. Without waiting for her response, he guided her upstairs.