Vicki knelt and softly said, Austin, can you tell your daddy again what you just said, please?
Austin glanced at Vicki, then at Jarrod, pursed his lips, and repeated, Are you feeling better, dad? This time, his voice was stronger and more confident.
Jarrod sat up abruptly, aggravating his wound and wincing from the pain, yet he endured it desperately. He stroked Austins head, his voice shaking as he said, Im okay, Austin. Daddys okay.
That gentle pat on the head was Jarrods deepest expression of affection. He remembered how his own father patted him on the head as a sign of encouragement and approval.
After his parents died, Jarrod shut himself away. He turned into someone relentless in his pursuits, driven by bitterness and devoid of any family sentiment, until this moment, when the single word Dad struck a profound chord within him. It felt like it cleansed the guilt that had been weighing on him.
His eyes reddened, and Jarrod managed a weak cough, saying, Vicki, this isnt a place for children. Please take Austin home.
Okay, Jarrod, take care. Ive brought some soup for you, Vicki replied, pointing at a thermos on the table. She smiled. Its beneficial for your recovery. Its hearty but not too rich, and Austin really enjoys it.
As Vicki leaned over to Austin, she smiled and said, Tell your daddy, do you want him to try it?
Austin nodded and said, Dad, you should try it. Vicki spent a lot of time on it, and I really like it.
A softness appeared in Jarrods gaze as he looked at Vicki. Thank you for the effort. Ill have some.
Vickis smile widened. Its no trouble. Im happiest when Im cooking and preparing meals for Austin. Luckily, he enjoys it and always compliments the food.
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Jarrods gaze deepened further. He noticed Austin sporting a slight smile, clearly in a cheerful mood. It was evident that Vicki excelled at childcare.
Vicki crouched again and spoke to Austin. Austin, say goodbye to your daddy so he can rest. We need to let him take good care of himself, alright?
Austin agreed and said, Dad, please take care of yourself and rest well. Can you teach me chess when youre feeling better?
A smile spread across Jarrods face as he responded, Of course. Daddy will come back and teach you.
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After Vicki and Austin left hand in hand, Alec expressed his admiration, Sir, Miss Hampton has a real knack for guiding kids. How did she transform a timid boy into such a courteous and sweet young boy?
When Austin was first brought back by Jarrod, he was as prickly as a hedgehog, letting no one near except his manny. He looked at everyone with distrust in his eyes.
The shift in Austins demeanor was so remarkable that it would astonish anyone who witnessed it.
Jarrod observed Austin intently but remained silent.
Alec then updated Jarrod on everything Vicki had done at the villa.
Since the nanny who usually cared for Austin, arranged by Nicole, had fallen ill and was still recuperating, Vicki volunteered to look after Austin and thereafter took care of him daily until late. Over time, they seemed to get close.
Two additional nannies were specifically arranged for Austins care by Jarrod, rendering concerns of Vicki mistreating Austin pointless.
I can tell that Miss Hampton is quite adept at getting on with kids. The counselor was pleased with Austins progress following his therapy sessions, Alec commented.
Jarrod cast his eyes down, examining the text messages Vicki had sent him in the last few days. She hadnt sent many, just two each day, inquiring if he was looking after himself. Instead of asking about his whereabouts, she shared photos of Austin, showing Austin playing with clay, reading books, engaging in crafts, and eating meals It seemed she had invested a great deal of effort.