Chapter 4 - Healing the Wounds**
Upstairs in the private family wing, the heavy, oppressive atmosphere that had choked the mansion for months had completely vanished. The sun streamed warmly through the tall arched windows, casting a golden glow across Livia’s bedroom.
Livia sat propped up against a pile of plush pillows, eating a bowl of fresh strawberries while laughing softly at a story Rosalie was reading to her. Though the uneven patch of shaved hair on the side of her head was still a stark reminder of the trauma, her eyes were bright, and the constant, nervous tension in her shoulders had finally melted away.
When Alessandro gently knocked on the open door and stepped inside, Livia immediately set her bowl aside and smiled brightly, waving him over.
“Daddy!” she called out happily.
Alessandro walked over, pulling up a small chair beside her bed, and gently stroked her uninjured hair with infinite tenderness. “How are you feeling today, my little princess?”
“I’m much better, Daddy,” Livia answered honestly, touching the shaved patch with a slight frown before looking up. “Do you think my hair will grow back funny?”
“It will grow back stronger and more beautiful than ever,” Alessandro promised, leaning down to press a warm kiss to her forehead. “And you know what? We don't have to worry about any mean people ever again. The wedding is canceled, and Bianca is gone for good.”
Livia’s eyes widened with pure, unfiltered joy. She threw her small arms around her father’s neck, burying her face in his shoulder. “Thank you, Daddy. Thank you for protecting me.”
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Rosalie stood nearby, wiping away a quiet tear of relief from her cheek. The house finally felt like a home again—safe, protected, and filled with unconditional love. The storm had passed, leaving behind a profound clarity. Alessandro realized that no amount of social status or high-society alliances could ever replace the sacred safety of his own family.
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