Chapter 10: Shadows in the Night
Despite the progress, the specter of fear returned on the night of the first severe summer thunderstorm.
Lightning tore across the sky, followed by a deafening clap of thunder that rattled the mansion's stained-glass windows. The power flickered once, twice, and then cut out completely, plunging the estate into total darkness.
Nicholas sprang from his bed, grabbing a flashlight and rushing down the hallway toward Lily’s nursery.
Inside, he found Lily crouched in the small space between her wardrobe and the wall, clutching Barnaby to her chest, her small body trembling uncontrollably. She was hyperventilating, trapped in the memory of the cellar.
Nicholas didn't try to pull her out. Instead, he placed the flashlight on the floor facing upward, casting a soft, ambient glow, and sat down on the floor right beside her, leaning his back against the wall.
""I'm right here, Lily,"" Nicholas said softly, opening his arms without forcing her to move. ""The storm is loud, but the walls are strong. And I am right here.""
Lily crept forward on her hands and knees, collapsing into her father’s chest. Nicholas wrapped his arms around her, rocking her gently as thunder shook the floorboards.
""Breathe with me, sweetheart,"" Nicholas whispered, placing her small hand against his chest so she could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. ""In... and out. You are safe. You are loved. The darkness can never take you again.""
May you like
Slowly, Lily’s breathing synced with his. The storm raged outside for hours, but inside the small circle of light, the father held his daughter until dawn broke over the horizon.
---
