Chapter 7 - Picking up the Pieces
The aftermath of a hurricane is always devastating, but the sunlight that follows brings clarity. That evening, Arthur ordered a massive spread of Chloe and Sophie's favorite foods—pizza, ice cream sundaes, and extra-syrup pancakes.
They ate in the informal breakfast nook, a space they hadn't used in months because Eleanor deemed it "too pedestrian."
"I am so sorry, my sweet girls," Arthur said, holding both of their hands across the table. He had cried earlier, alone in his study, grieving the pain his daughters had endured in silence. "I was blind. I was foolish. But I promise you, from this day forward, nothing and no one will ever hurt you in this house again."
Chloe, who had been so silent, finally looked up, her eyes bright. "Is she really gone forever, Daddy?"
"Forever," Arthur promised, kissing her knuckles.
May you like
Sophie looked toward the kitchen, where Clara was quietly wiping down a counter. "Can Clara eat with us?"
Arthur smiled, a genuine, warm smile that reached his eyes. "I think that's a brilliant idea."
