The Escape to the Lakeside
Chapter 05 - The Escape to the Lakeside
The heavy oak doors of the ballroom slammed shut behind Adrian, cutting off the chaotic roar of whispers and Victoria’s shrill screams.
The hotel lobby was quiet, illuminated by soft amber lighting. Adrian carried baby Mia tightly against his chest, his suit coat wrapped around her shivering shoulders, while his other hand held Clara’s firmly. Clara’s small, dirt-streaked feet left faint smudges on the polished marble floor, but she walked with her head held high, refusing to let go of her father.
Outside, the cool night air hit them. Adrian’s private driver, Samuel—a loyal family retainer who had served Adrian’s late father—instantly rushed out from the idling black sedan, his eyes widening in shock at the sight of the groom abandoning his own wedding with two disheveled children.
"Sir?! What happened in there?" Samuel stammered, pulling the rear door open.
"Drive us to the lakeside estate, Samuel. Now," Adrian commanded, his voice trembling with suppressed rage and emotion. "And call Dr. Reynolds. Tell him I need him at the house immediately to examine my daughters."
Samuel didn't ask another question. He quickly ushered Clara into the back seat, helped Adrian settle Mia, and sped away from the hotel, leaving the flashing cameras of the arriving paparazzi behind in the rear-view mirror.
Inside the car, the silence was thick. Adrian sat between his two daughters, pulling them both into his arms.
"Daddy..." Clara whispered, her voice barely audible over the hum of the engine. "Are you mad at us for ruining your party?"
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Adrian felt a tear escape his eye, rolling down his cheek. He leaned down and pressed a deep, lingering kiss onto Clara’s forehead, then onto Mia’s soft cheek.
"Never, Clara. You saved me," Adrian choked out, clutching the old platinum necklace tightly in his hand. "I am so sorry... I am so, so sorry I wasn't there to protect you."
