Chapter 3: A Father's Pride
Arthur called off the security team with a quick wave of his hand. The guards retreated into the shadows of the mansion, leaving the three of them in the quiet courtyard. Arthur reached out, his large, manicured hand hovering over Leo’s shoulder before gently resting on it.
""You could have been arrested, son,"" Arthur said softly, his eyes reflecting the soft glow of the patio lamps. ""You trespassed on private property.""
May you like
""I know,"" Leo replied, his chin raised slightly. ""But my mom always said that if you see someone carrying a heavy load alone, you help them lift it. Even if you get dirt on your hands.""
The words struck Arthur like a physical blow. For years, he had shielded Emily behind stone walls and private doctors, treating her condition like a secret to be hidden rather than a burden to be shared. He looked at Emily, who was smiling through her tears, her hands resting gently on Leo’s shoulders for balance.
