Chapter 34: A Step Closer to His Father

The morning sunlight filtered through the mansion's grand windows, casting a golden hue over the luxurious living room. The atmosphere was unusually light-hearted, with the soft hum of voices filling the space. Today was special. Today, his father had planned something just for him.

Mama (Emma) and his sisters had subtly stepped in to ensure that the protagonist wouldn't feel uncomfortable. After all, despite his father's efforts, the wounds of the past were still fresh. He was slowly warming up to him, but fully embracing him again would take time.

His father stood nervously near the grand staircase, adjusting his cuffs while watching his son chat with his sisters. He had been absent for so long, and each time he tried to be close, he was reminded of the painful distance between them. But today, he had a chance—a chance to create new memories.

"Sweetheart," Mama (Emma) called out gently, kneeling beside her son. "Papa has planned something fun for you today. You'll go on a special trip."

The boy's small hands clutched onto the hem of her dress, his eyes flickering between uncertainty and curiosity. "With you too, Mama?"

Mama (Emma) smiled, brushing his soft hair. "Of course, my love. And your sisters will be there too."

His father watched as relief flooded the child's face. He bit back the sadness in his chest—his son was only comfortable if his mother and sisters were present. But he pushed aside his disappointment. If it meant even a small step forward, he would take it.

A Private Wonderland

The family arrived at a private amusement park, closed off from the rest of the world just for them. The vibrant colors, the twinkling lights, and the lively music created a world of wonder. The boy's eyes widened with excitement, but he still instinctively reached for Mama (Emma)'s hand.

His father took a deep breath before gently stepping forward. "Would you like to go on a ride with me?" His voice was hopeful yet cautious, aware that the answer might crush him.

The boy hesitated, then glanced at Mama (Emma). She gave him an encouraging nod. "How about we all ride together first?" she suggested, giving both of them a chance to ease into it.

The first ride was a gentle carousel. Mama (Emma) placed the protagonist on a beautifully decorated horse, while his father carefully lifted himself onto the one beside him. His sisters cheered playfully, making silly faces to coax a giggle from their little brother. And finally—finally—his father saw it. A small, fleeting smile graced his son's lips. It was brief, but it was there.

As the day progressed, his father found himself becoming braver. When they tried a Ferris wheel, Mama (Emma) pretended to be scared and nudged their son toward his father's side for protection. It worked. For the first time in what felt like forever, his son leaned into him, even if just for a second. His heart clenched at the warmth of the small body beside him.

The Sweetest Moment

By evening, the protagonist was exhausted from all the fun. His tiny hands clutched onto a stuffed toy his father had won for him. The family returned to the mansion, the little boy already fighting off sleep.

His father carried him inside, feeling the weight of his son in his arms—a weight he had once taken for granted. He walked up the stairs to his son's room, but when he reached the door, the child stirred and mumbled sleepily, "Mama…"

His father felt a pang in his chest, but before he could step back, Mama (Emma) placed a gentle hand on his arm. "Why don't you tuck him in tonight?" she whispered with a warm smile.

His throat tightened, but he nodded. Carefully, he laid his son down and pulled the blanket over his small body. He brushed his hair aside, watching the peaceful rise and fall of his chest. This little boy—his son—had been through so much. And he had been the cause of much of that pain.

A tear slipped down his face as he whispered, "I'm sorry… I'll never leave you again."

Mama (Emma) and the sisters stood by the doorway, watching. They knew it would take time. But today, a small part of the distance had been closed. And for that, they were grateful.

The chapter ended with the father sitting beside his son's bed, watching over him as he slept—just like he should have been doing all along.