AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“You’re my hero. I know daddy asked Theo to join us, but it was under mama’s duress and because he wants to try and support you. The fact you were brave enough to bring Theo... Well let’s just say, my baby sis is growing up. I’m so proud,” my sister whispers
I chuckle, breaking the hug. “I’m glad you find this so amusing. Thank God Evan isn’t here. That would be a train wreck,” I murmur.
“Theo, glad you could join us.” My father is out of his seat and now in front of us, his hand held out to greet my man.
“Thank you for inviting me.” Theo uses his free hand to shake my father’s.
He turns his gaze on me, a soft smile curving his lips. “Princess.” He pulls me into a hug and presses a kiss to my hair. I’m vaguely aware that Aria is mumbling something to Theo. What it is, I’m not sure. Probably my sister being her usual self towards him. Threatening him in some way. I almost laugh at the thought.
“Hey, daddy.”
He pulls back. “Let’s sit.” He waves his arms towards the table and chairs.
Theo pulls my chair out like he did last night and then drops down beside me. I look at the view, the sea almost calming me. “Wow, the view is amazing,” I state because it really is. I’m fortunate enough to have been to some beautiful places in my life, but this tops them all. I’m aware the showground and town are only around fifteen minutes away, but it feels like we’re in our own little world out here.
“It is. Your mother has fallen in love with this place. I’m trying to buy it for her. As an anniversary gift,” he drawls, but there’s no arrogance. His voice is filled with love for my mama.
I gasp. “She was just telling us how much she adores this home. It’s an extravagant gift but she will love it.”
My father barks out a laugh. “Very extravagant, princess, but your mama deserves the world and more.” I don’t disagree. She does. And I know my father will do everything in his power to give it to her. He turns his gaze on Theo. I tense, waiting for what he is going to say. “So, Theo, how are things? I’m no expert, but it seems you’re finding your feet in showjumping again. Your results speak for themselves.”
Theo clears his throat and I settle at the effort my dad is going to. “I am. It feels good to be back on the circuit again and do what I do best. I may not have a string of horses, but I can achieve what I want with the two I have.”
“Ah yes. What happened with all your animals?” my father asks. Not to be an asshole, he’s just genuinely curious. I feel Theo freeze beside me and risk a glance at him. Something passes in his eyes before he takes a breath and relaxes.
“Melody’s father owned most of them. After the... breakdown of our relationship, they were sold. I managed to keep the two I had the best connection with.” He shrugs likes it’s no big deal, but I know how much his horses meant to him. Reaching down, I squeeze his knee and flash him a smile. As if he forgets where we are he leans forward and presses his lips to my cheek. My eyes widen, I pull back. He frowns then his gaze moves to my father. His face is blank as he says. “I know you probably don’t want to hear this Christian, but no animal is worth more than your daughter. I would have lost them all if it meant having Thalia. Horses come and go. But there is only one love of my life.” The love and sincerity in his eyes make my chest tighten and my heart swoon. I glance at my sister; her eyes are wide but she’s smiling. I move my gaze to my father; he stares at Theo with a look of... respect?
He clears his throat. “I’m glad to hear that, Theo. My daughter deserves the best. Someone who will put her first. Your little speech there? It gives me hope you will be that man for her.”
I’m in shock. Absolute shock. I don’t know what I expected when I brought Theo here for dinner, but it definitely wasn’t this. Does my father really feel like this or is he just putting on a show, doing it to make me happy? Whatever the reason, I don’t care. I just want my two worlds to be able to exist together. I couldn’t have one and not the other. I love my family. And I’m in love with Theo. I don’t think it’s asking too much to have them both. Before I can comment, my mama’s voice sounds.
“Dinner is ready. Can someone help me grab the dishes?” I push out of my chair, ready to help, but Theo stops me.
“I’ll go. You just relax, piccola.” He strides away to help my mama like he’s done it a million times before. I feel eyes on me and move my gaze towards my papa. He looks at me with nothing but love.
“Sweetheart, if he’s who makes you happy, who makes your heart full like your mama makes mine, then I will not stand in the way. But know this, if he does anything to hurt you, if there is any sign of the drama that happened before, there is nothing in this world that will stop me from going after him,” he says coolly, like he didn’t just threaten to ruin the man I love if he messes up. I love him for it, even if it’s a little overboard. He’s just protecting me, looking out for me as a father should. I may be nineteen, but I will always be his little girl. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
