Fading Echoes

Chapter 12

E D W A R D

Sitting in the living room, I glanced at Alex, my eldest son, as he sifted through some papers on the coffee table.

"We've done well with our hotels and restaurants," I began, breaking the comfortable silence. "But this new restaurant, Blue Moon Bistro, could be something special."

Alex looked up, nodding thoughtfully. "I agree, Dad. We've got a solid reputation already. This could really set us apart, especially with the new menu concept we're planning."

I leaned back in my chair, considering his words. "I think focusing on locally sourced ingredients will resonate with our customers. It's a growing trend, and New Yorkers appreciate quality and authenticity."

Alex smiled. "Plus, the location is perfect. Right in the heart of Manhattan, we'll attract both tourists and locals. The design team has some great ideas for creating an atmosphere that's both elegant and welcoming."

"Have you finalized the chef yet?" I asked.

"Almost," Alex replied. "I have a few candidates in mind. We're looking for someone innovative but with a strong grounding in classic techniques."

"Good. And what about the launch? Any ideas on how to make it stand out?" I inquired, eager to hear his plans.

"We're thinking of hosting a soft opening with influencers and food critics. Create some buzz before the official launch. Maybe even a charity event to get some good press," Alex suggested.

I nodded approvingly. "Sounds like a solid strategy. Let's make sure we have everything lined up perfectly. This place could be our crowning achievement."

"We'll make it happen, Dad. Blue Moon Bistro is going to be amazing," Alex said with a confident smile.

As Alex and I delved deeper into our conversation about the new restaurant, the sound of footsteps drew my attention. Victor, Ethan, and Eva entered the living room, followed by two maids burdened with shopping bags.

"What's going on?" Ethan asked, eyeing the papers scattered on the coffee table.

"We're discussing the new restaurant," I replied, trying to keep my focus.

Ethan and Victor claimed the single sofas, while Eva settled beside Alex, leaning her head on his shoulder. Alex instinctively put his arm around her, pulling her closer.

"Did you have fun, sweetheart?" he asked gently, tucking a few loose strands of her hair behind her ear.

She hummed in response, snuggling closer to his chest and closing her eyes.

As I looked at Eva's peaceful face, a strange, conflicted feeling welled up inside me.

Sometimes, I wanted to shield her from the world's harshness, to be the father she never truly had. She had always been so vulnerable, so in need of protection. My paternal instincts surged, making me want to envelop her in a cocoon of safety.

Yet, other times, I couldn't help but blame her for all the pain her existence had brought into my life.

My eyes drifted to the pendant around her neck, and my jaw tightened.

That pendant...

The sight of it brought a flood of memories, emotions I had buried deep resurfacing with a vengeance.

The golden pendant, featuring a rose intricately carved and adorned with a white diamond, was the first gift I had given Riona on our first date. It was a piece of my heart, a reminder of a time when life seemed perfect.