Chapter 430 Family Members
Skylar's eyes suddenly lit up with a spark of inspiration. She looked around quickly before asking, "Mom, where's my dad? Why do other kids have their dads to play with, but I never see mine? Does he not like me?"
Her little face was full of confusion and hurt, her eyes fixed on me, searching for a definite answer.
I knelt down to her level, gently holding her small hand as I explained, "Skylar, your dad loves you very much. He works hard every day to make sure you have pretty clothes and fun toys."
"But why can't he just be with us?" Skylar wasn't satisfied with my explanation. Her little mouth pouted, and tears began to well up in her eyes. "I don't care, I want Daddy here with me right now."
She plopped down heavily on the couch, her little chest heaving with emotion, her angry expression making my heart ache.
Watching Skylar like this, a sharp pain pierced my heart, and my nose tingled with the threat of tears. As her mother, I hadn't been able to give her a childhood with a father always by her side, and guilt washed over me. I could only silently reach out again, gently stroking her hair, trying to convey my love for her, as my own eyes grew moist.
Melissa, who had been watching from the side, couldn't help but speak up, "Diana, she's still so young and innocent. Don't take it too hard. But you know, kids her age just want their parents around. You and Edward should think more about her, give her a lively, loving home. It's so important for her growth."
I nodded lightly, my gaze drifting to the window.
The sky outside was a clear, bright blue, the sunlight pouring down generously, the greenery along the street swaying gently in the breeze, everything brimming with life and beauty. But inside, I felt like I was caught in an invisible storm, waves of emotion crashing over me.
Images of the times I hadn't been there for Skylar flashed through my mind. The parent-child sports day at kindergarten, where other kids had their parents cheering them on, while Skylar watched with longing in her eyes; her birthday party, where other kids made wishes surrounded by their parents, while Skylar made hers alone, under my apologetic gaze.
I knew that a child her age should have a world filled with endless laughter and warmth, and Edward and I, as her closest people, should be the pillars of that world. But instead, we had let cracks appear in her world.
For Skylar to grow up healthy and happy in a complete and harmonious family environment, Edward and I needed to put aside our past differences and stand together, hand in hand, facing life's challenges. As I thought about the upcoming charity gala, I knew it was a crucial opportunity for Edward's career, gathering many business elites and socialites. A successful career for Edward meant a stable family economy, providing a stronger foundation for Skylar's future and more possibilities for her.
After a fierce internal struggle, I finally made up my mind. Taking a deep breath, I picked up my phone and quickly dialed Edward's number.
When he answered, I tried to steady my breathing and sound firm, "Hey, Edward, I've decided. I'll go to the charity gala with you. You can use my invitation."
"Really? Diana, that's awesome! Thank you!" Edward's voice was filled with excitement.
"I'll get the dress ready right away. I'll make sure you're the most beautiful, outstanding woman at the gala."
"Okay, but this time, don't let me down," I said half-jokingly, with a hint of reproach. At that moment, my heart was full of hope for the future, all my previous doubts completely gone.
"Don't worry, Diana. This time, I'll hold your hand tightly and never let go, so everyone knows you're the one I love most, the one I want to protect for life." Edward's tone was firm, each word filled with unprecedented determination, making me believe him.
After hanging up, I gently took Skylar's small hand, pulling her closer to me, and planted a big kiss on her rosy cheek.
Skylar was a bit taken aback by my sudden affectionate gesture. Her previously upset face showed a hint of surprise, then her mouth curled into a shy smile, her eyes turning into crescent moons, the light returning to them. She touched the cheek I had kissed with her other hand, then leaned in to give me a quick peck on my cheek.
Holding Skylar's hand tightly, I softly said, "Sweetheart, from now on, Mommy and Daddy will always be with you."
Skylar nodded, somewhat understanding, her small hand gripping my fingers, and in her sweet childlike voice, she said, "I'll always be with Mommy too."
I knew that for Skylar, for our family, Edward and I were about to take a new step forward, and this was just the beginning.
At that moment, Melissa walked over, a gentle smile on her face, softly calling Skylar, "It's time to go home, Skylar."
I looked at Melissa with gratitude, sincerely saying, "Melissa, I don't know how to thank you enough. With my busy work, I can't manage everything, but you've helped so much, taking care of Skylar so well."
Melissa smiled warmly, waving her hand lightly, "Diana, don't mention it. I genuinely enjoy taking care of Skylar."
She then spoke like an elder, "You should seriously think about things with her dad."
With that, Melissa beckoned to Skylar. Skylar, who had been holding my hand tightly, let go and ran over to Melissa.
Melissa naturally took Skylar's hand and turned to me, "We'll head home now."
I nodded slightly, watching them walk towards the door, my heart warm. To me, Melissa was more than just an employee; she was a member of our family, witnessing the ups and downs of my life, offering advice and support.
Skylar turned back, waving her little hand to say goodbye, "Bye, Mommy. I'll wait for you at home." Her adorable demeanor melted my heart.