Chapter 9 - The Father's Apology
Dominic looked directly into Lucas’s red, tear-stained eyes. The cinematic realism of the powerful, terrifying boss showing complete vulnerability to a child was breathtaking.
"I'm sorry, Lucas," Dominic whispered, his deep voice thick with genuine, raw emotion. "I built this big house to keep you safe, but I forgot to make sure you felt loved inside of it. I have been angry for a long time since your mother left. But I am not angry at you. Never at you."
Lucas’s lower lip trembled. He looked at his father, then looked up at Maria, who offered him an encouraging, gentle nod.
Lucas took a small step forward, releasing Maria’s apron. He wrapped his small arms around his father’s thick neck. Dominic closed his eyes, letting out a shuddering breath as he hugged his son back tightly, burying his face in the boy's shoulder.
It was the first time they had hugged in two years.
Dominic finally opened his eyes and looked up at Maria, who was watching them with a warm, beautiful smile.
"You didn't run from him," Dominic said softly, his dark eyes locking onto the maid with profound, unshakeable respect.
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"He just needed someone to stay, sir," Maria replied simply.
👉 Dominic stood up, and his next command would completely change Maria's life forever.
