Chapter 3 - Echoes in the Penthouse
The doors to Suite 904 clicked open, and the absolute silence of the penthouse enveloped them. It was a magnificent space, spanning the entire top floor, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the twinkling skyline of Chicago and the dark expanse of Lake Michigan.
Ethan walked past the luxury leather sofas and the crystal chandeliers, heading straight for the master bedroom. With practiced, agonizing gentleness, he laid Lily down on the plush king-sized bed. He slid off her shoes, pulled the heavy duvet over her small shoulders, and tucked her favorite stuffed rabbit right under her arm. Lily stirred slightly, letting out a soft sigh, but remained fast asleep.
Ethan stood over her for a long time, watching the gentle rise and fall of her chest.
"You're safe, sweetie," he whispered, kissing her forehead. "Daddy’s got you."
He walked back into the living room, carrying the battered bouquet of red roses. He placed them on the grand glass dining table. In the quiet of the night, away from the anger of the lobby, the crushing weight of his reality settled back onto his shoulders.
Tomorrow was the day. Three years without Sarah.
He sat down on the sofa, burying his face in his hands. The wealth, the hotels, the billions in the bank—none of it could buy back a single second with the woman he loved. He had built this empire so Sarah would never have to worry about a thing, only for cancer to steal her away just as they achieved their dreams. He felt a profound, aching loneliness. He had protected his daughter's dignity tonight, but who was going to protect his?
Suddenly, the suite’s doorbell chimed quietly.
Ethan frowned, glancing at the clock. It was nearly midnight. He walked over and opened the door to find Lupita standing there. She had changed out of her uniform into her normal clothes, and in her hands, she carried a beautiful, crystal vase filled with fresh, chilled water, along with a small tray containing warm milk and a plate of chocolate chip cookies.
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"I'm sorry to disturb you, Mr. Vance," Lupita said softly, looking down. "I know you wanted peace. But I noticed the roses earlier... they looked a bit dry. I thought they might need water before the morning. And... I thought the little girl might want a snack if she wakes up hungry from the flight delays."
Ethan stared at her, the hard exterior he usually wore around the world completely fracturing.
