Chapter 9
We stepped off the boat, and Sophia's eyes grew wide at the amazing view. The clear turquoise water, white sand beaches, and a sky so blue it looked painted took our breath away.
"Wow!" Sophia said, holding my hand. "It's so pretty!"
I smiled, feeling a sense of wonder myself. The island was like a dream a perfect escape from our busy lives.
But the feeling of paradise soon broke. A line of bodyguards in black suits stood waiting for us. Sophia clung to my side, her small hand gripping tighter.
"Why are there so many guards, Daddy?" she asked, her voice holding a hint of worry.
Alexander looked down at her, his face softening. "They're here to keep us safe, Sophia. There's nothing to worry about."
Victoria, who had been quiet until now, stepped forward, her designer sunglasses perched on her nose. "Honestly, Alexander, do we need all this security? It's a bit much, don't you think?"
Alexander's jaw tightened, but he didn't answer. Instead, he signaled for us to follow and led the way to the luxurious villa that would be our home for the next few days.
The villa was beautiful a large, modern building with expansive windows that offered sweeping views of the ocean. Inside, the decor was clean and minimalist, with touches of luxury everywhere.
Sophia immediately ran off to explore, her earlier worry completely forgotten. "Elena, look! There's a pool! And a swing! Can we go swimming later?"
I laughed and nodded. "Of course, sweetheart. But let's get settled first, okay?"
As we walked through the villa, I couldn't help but notice the tension between Alexander and Victoria. Their relationship was clearly strained, leaving me to wonder how this vacation would go with all of us sharing one house.
That evening, we ate dinner on the villa's terrace. A long table was set under the stars, and while the sound of waves crashing on the shore was calming, the mood at the table was anything but peaceful.
Victoria dominated the conversation, talking endlessly about her recent social events and frequently dropping the names of famous people. Meanwhile, Sophia just picked at her food, looking thoroughly miserable.
"Sophia, dear," Victoria said suddenly, her tone overly sweet. "You really should try the lobster. It's wonderful."
Sophia shook her head, her voice small but firm. "I don't like lobster."
Victoria's smile tightened. "Well, maybe you just haven't had it prepared correctly. Alexander, don't you think she should try new foods?"
Alexander looked at Victoria, his expression cool. "Sophia can eat whatever she likes."
Victoria's smile wavered, and she quickly changed the subject, but the tension remained thick in the air.
Sensing Sophia's discomfort, I leaned over and whispered, "How about we go for a walk after dinner? Just you and me."
Sophia's face lit up, and she turned to her father, nodding eagerly. "Can we, Daddy?"
Alexander paused, then nodded. "Just stay close to the villa."
After dinner, we slipped away from the villa, the cool sand squishing between our toes as we walked along the shore.
Sophia kept her voice quiet as she asked me about Victoria. "Why does Daddy like her? She isn't nice."
I sighed, not entirely sure how to answer. "Sometimes grown-ups make choices that are hard to understand," I said carefully. "But your dad loves you, Sophia. That's what matters most."
Sophia nodded, though her face still looked troubled. "I wish you were my mom," she said softly.
My heart ached at her words. I crouched down to meet her eyes. "You are so incredibly loved, sweetheart. By your dad, by me, and by so many people. No matter what happens, I will always be here for you."
Sophia hugged me tightly, and for a moment, the world felt exactly as it should be.
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