Chapter 32: Small Steps Toward a Father’s Redemption

The soft glow of morning light filtered through the enormous glass windows of the mansion, casting a golden hue over the luxurious interior. The air was filled with the faint aroma of fresh flowers, and the distant chirping of birds outside created a peaceful ambiance. However, for one man, peace was still a distant dream.

The father sat in his study, staring at a framed picture of his son when he was younger. He traced his fingers over the image, his heart aching with regret. He had lost so much time. Time that he could never get back. But he was determined to make up for it, even if it meant taking small steps. He needed to show his son that he was worthy of being called 'Papa' again.

A Father's Quiet Attempts

For days, he had tried to bond with his son, but the child's heart was guarded. The boy was hesitant, responding in short words or looking away when his father tried to approach him. The past wounds ran deep, and his father knew that rushing things would only push him further away.

So, he listened to Mama (Emma) and the sisters' advice. He stopped trying too hard and instead started to blend into his son's world naturally. Instead of asking his son to spend time with him, he would quietly sit nearby when the child was playing with his sisters. He would watch, smile, and, when invited, he would participate without forcing anything.

One afternoon, while playing with building blocks with Olivia, the boy struggled to place the final piece of his tower. His small hands trembled slightly, and his brows furrowed in frustration. The father, sitting quietly nearby, hesitated before gently asking,

"Can I help you, son?"

The boy looked up at him, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. His tiny fingers gripped the block tightly before, after a long pause, he handed it over. The father carefully placed the last piece, making sure to let his son feel in control. When the tower stood tall, the boy blinked in surprise before his lips curled into the tiniest of smiles.

Mama (Emma), who was watching from a distance, felt tears prick her eyes. It was a small moment, but it was progress.

Mama (Emma) and the Sisters' Guidance

Later that evening, Mama (Emma) found her husband sitting on the balcony, lost in thought. She walked over and wrapped her arms around his shoulders, resting her chin on his head.

"You're doing great," she whispered, pressing a soft kiss to his hair.

He let out a heavy sigh. "I just wish I could erase everything that happened. I wish he didn't have to hesitate before letting me in."

She gently cupped his face, making him look at her. "You can't change the past, my love. But you're here now. And that's what matters."

The sisters also played their part. They invited their father to join in activities that their little brother enjoyed. Charlotte suggested a fashion game where their father had to dress up like a prince to make their brother laugh. Isabella took them to a private military training ground where they had a safe and controlled game of hide-and-seek. Lily encouraged a study session where their father helped their little brother with simple puzzles.

The boy didn't reject his father, but he also didn't fully embrace him yet. He was still cautious, still guarded. But there were moments—fleeting, precious moments—where he would look at his father with something less than hesitation. Moments where the love they once had peeked through the cracks of his fragile heart.

A Night of Progress

That night, as Mama (Emma) tucked their son into bed, the father stood at the doorway, watching. Normally, he wouldn't step in, afraid of overstepping boundaries. But tonight, he gathered the courage to walk forward.

"Can I tell you a bedtime story?" he asked softly.

The little boy looked at Mama (Emma), as if seeking permission. She smiled and nodded encouragingly. After a long pause, the boy scooted slightly to the side, making space next to him.

The father's heart swelled. He sat down beside him, slowly and carefully, as if afraid to scare him away. He began telling a soft, gentle story about a prince who got lost but found his way home with the help of the people who loved him.

As the boy's eyelids grew heavy, he unconsciously reached out and gripped his father's sleeve. The father froze, his breath hitching. He looked at Mama (Emma), who had tears in her eyes, and then back at his son.

It was a small step. But it meant the world.

A Father's Silent Promise

Long after the boy had fallen asleep, the father stayed beside him, brushing his fingers gently through his son's soft hair. He pressed a kiss to his forehead and whispered a promise only the night could hear.

"I will never leave you again, my son."