The Billionaire's Daughter (Valeria Series 1)

TBD 24

Beautiful Dream.

"Hey, dad, what would you like to talk about?"

As I settled onto the sofa in his office at home, I realized it had been ages since I'd been here; he was always buried in work.

"I heard about what happened," I said, figuring Kuya Dion had filled him in.

I sighed and turned to face him.

"And? You realized it too late," he groaned.

"I know I messed up. It was selfish, but it was the only way I could cope and try to move on. I threw myself into work to numb the pain," I confessed.

"I know Grandmere said some awful things about me, called me names, but I couldn't help falling in love, daughter," he continued.

"I'm sorry. I should have pursued an annulment long ago if I'd known your mother was hurting you," he added, remorse evident in his voice.

"Can you forgive me?" he asked, concern etched in his features.

"Of course, Dad. You're my priority, and I'll do anything to protect this family. The love I once had for your mother turned to anger the moment I learned what she did to you. She made a fool out of me after all I did for her and Suzy. I won't let her have any power over our family," he assured me, pulling me into a comforting embrace.

Tears welled up in my eyes as he held me close. This time, the tears weren't about my mom or Suzy, they were about the pain I'd endured.

I remembered my childhood, striving for his attention and affection, yearning for his comforting embrace. I never knew a hug could evoke such conflicting emotions—heartache and happiness intertwined. But in that moment, it was all I needed.

Is this what a Dad's hug feels like?

Is this the peace a Dad's hug brings?

That night, I cried until I fell asleep.

The next morning, just as Grandmere had predicted, Grandpere arrived.

"Grandpere!" I exclaimed, rushing to hug him tightly.

Despite his imposing appearance, Grandpere was the most loving and supportive figure in my life. At sixty, he still stood strong, defying the marks of age.

"Dad..." my dad approached, embracing Grandpa.

"Where's your mom?" Grandpere inquired.

"You're late!"

"Mon amour..."

To my surprise, Grandmere punched Grandpere on the shoulder.

"Don't call me that and talk to your idiot son! He inherited all his foolishness from you! Both of you are a headache!" she retorted before heading straight to the dining room.

Dad chuckled. "You okay, Dad?" he asked, placing a hand on Grandpere's shoulder.

"Why does she still hit so hard at her age? Oh, my women!" Grandpere exclaimed, rubbing his shoulder.

I couldn't help but laugh. Dad and I linked arms and entered the dining room, where Grandmere was scolding Grandpere, who scratched his head sheepishly.

Their dynamic was both amusing and heartwarming.

"Where's Dion?" I asked.

"He left early."

"Why, Dad?"

"To visit your mom and sister."

"Ugh, just hearing about that woman ruins my appetite," I muttered.

"And I've already sent her the annulment papers," Dad added, surprising me.

"That fast?" I exclaimed.

Grandmere clapped her hands. "For once, I'm pleased with what's coming out of your mouth," she remarked, earning a chuckle from Grandpere.

"Are you all right, son?" Grandpere asked, concern evident in his voice.

"I'm fine, Dad. I've realized there are more important things I need to focus on," Dad replied, glancing at me with a smile, which I returned.

It all felt surreal. I didn't want to wake up from this beautiful dream.

As the morning progressed, the atmosphere in the house shifted from tension to a sense of relief and optimism. With the annulment papers sent and the truth acknowledged, there was a newfound sense of freedom and possibility.

Over breakfast, conversations flowed more freely than they had in a long time. Dad and Grandpere reminisced about old memories, sharing stories that brought laughter and warmth to the room. Even Grandmere, though still stern, seemed to soften a bit, her sharp remarks tempered by the newfound peace in the household.

I found myself feeling lighter, as if a heavy burden had been lifted from my shoulders. With Dad's support and determination to protect our family, I no longer felt alone in facing the challenges ahead. The love and solidarity within our family were stronger than ever, and I knew we would overcome whatever obstacles came our way.

After breakfast, Dad suggested going for a walk in the garden. It was a bright, sunny day, perfect for spending time outdoors. We strolled along the winding paths, enjoying the beauty of nature and the tranquility it brought.

As we walked, Dad talked about his plans for the future—building a stronger bond with me, supporting me in my endeavors, and creating a happy, fulfilling life for our family. His words filled me with hope and optimism for the days to come.

In that moment, surrounded by the love of my family and the beauty of nature, I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. Whatever challenges lay ahead, I knew we would face them together, united in our love and determination to build a brighter future.

And as we continued our walk, I couldn't help but smile, grateful for the love and support of my Dad and the strength of our family bond. The future was uncertain, but with them by my side, I knew everything would be alright.