Chapter 96: A token of apology
Christian strolled into Jennifer’s room and found her and the nanny playing with colorful balls scattered across the pink space.
Leaning against the doorframe, he watched quietly. Her laughter and carefree squeals filled the air, bringing a smile to his face.
He never imagined he’d be so captivated by a child’s antics, but Jennifer had proven him wrong. Every little thing she did—no matter how small—brought him a strange sense of joy. The way she furrowed her tiny brows in concentration while throwing a ball, or how her eyes sparkled as she chased after a stray one, completely mesmerized him. It was like she thought she’d get in trouble if she didn’t catch it.
It was both endearing and amusing. He realized that fatherhood had brought out a side of him he never knew existed. Her presence in his life had awakened a deep well of love and patience he never knew existed.
His thoughts drifted to the "doggish cat" she’d become obsessed with after watching a Barbie cartoon—the one with a cat that barked like a dog. He’d found it hilarious, and even more ridiculous that he had actually tried to find such a pet, knowing full well they only existed in fairy tales.
Eventually, he’d settled for buying her a cat and a small breed dog, hoping she’d love them. He also hoped she liked their white fur. If not, he figured he’d be stuck trying to dye them pink or purple.
She had just turned two, and Christian had been debating whether to enroll her in school to meet other kids or homeschool her. The thought of anyone bullying her made his chest tighten. If she was going to attend a school, it had to be the best—and he’d make them sign an agreement that no harm would ever come to her. Even from her classmates.
Just then, Jennifer stepped on a rolling ball and landed hard on her bottom. Christian flinched, his eyes widening. Her little face crumpled, about to cry—until she saw him.
"Daddy!" she squealed, scrambling to her feet and throwing her arms around his legs, completely forgetting about her fall.
"Hello, sunshine," he cooed, lifting her up and smothering her cheeks and neck with kisses. She giggled, her tiny hands playfully batting at his head to escape.
"Did you buy me doggy cat?" she asked, her sapphire eyes sparkling with anticipation as he finally dropped her.