Daniel reminded her. That’s where you get your brains. After Emma was asleep, Daniel received an unexpected call from Sophia. “I wanted to apologize for what happened today,” she said without preamble. “Richard’s behavior was unprofessional and inappropriate.” “It’s not your fault,” Daniel assured her. “Office politics happens everywhere, even in academia.

” “Still, I should have shut it down immediately. I just,” she hesitated. “I knew you could handle it, and I wanted Richard to see that for himself.” Well, I’m not sure I changed his mind, Daniel admitted. If anything, I think he’s more resentful now. Sophia sighed. Richard has always been territorial, but this seems different, more personal. I don’t understand it.

Some people just take an instant dislike to others. It’s human nature. Perhaps, Sophia agreed, though she sounded unconvinced. In any case, I wanted you to know that your work today was remarkable. The Schneider executives were impressed. They emailed James afterwards specifically mentioning your presentation.

The praise warmed him, not just professionally, but personally. It had been a long time since Daniel had felt truly competent, truly in his element. The years of struggling as a handyman, always aware of his limitations in that role, had taken a toll on his confidence. “Thank you,” he said simply. “That means a lot.” There was a pause before Sophia spoke again.

Daniel, I’d like to invite you and Emma to my family’s lakehouse this weekend. James is bringing his kids, and we thought Emma might enjoy the water in the boat. Very casual. Just a day trip on Saturday. The invitation surprised him. This was extending beyond professional courtesy into something more personal.

That’s very kind, but are you sure? I wouldn’t want to impose on family time. You wouldn’t be Sophia. say he might might wouldn’t meet, Sophia assured him. James and I were just discussing how Emma and his daughter Lily seemed to hit it off at dinner. And honestly, these family outings can get a bit tedious with just adults. Having Emma there would be a welcome change of pace. Daniel considered the offer.

Emma would love a day at a lake house. She’d been begging to go swimming as the summer heat intensified, and it would be good for her to spend more time with Lily, who seemed like a positive influence despite the age difference. We’d be delighted, he said finally. Emma will be thrilled. Saturday dawned clear and bright.

Perfect weather for a lake day. Emma was up early, vibrating with excitement as she packed her small backpack with sunscreen, a towel, and the new swimsuit they’d purchased just for this occasion. “Is Ms. Morgan’s lake house big like her regular house?” Emma asked as they drove, following the GPS directions Sophia had sent.

I imagine so, Daniel replied, though in truth he had no idea what to expect. The Morgan’s wealth was so far beyond his experience that he couldn’t begin to guess what constituted a lakehouse in their world. The answer, when they arrived, was both better and worse than he had anticipated. Lakehouse was a modest term for the sprawling property that came into view as they drove down a treelined private road.

The main building was a rustic lux structure of stone and timber with floor toseeiling windows overlooking a pristine lake. A boat house, a separate guest cottage, and meticulously landscaped grounds completed the picture of casual opulence. “Wow,” Emma breathed as they parked beside several high-end vehicles. “It’s like a fairy tale.

” Daniel felt a familiar discomfort, the sense of being out of place that had accompanied many of his interactions with the Morgan world. But Emma’s excitement pushed aside his reservations. This day wasn’t about him or his discomfort with wealth disparities. It was about giving his daughter a day of simple childhood joy. Sophia greeted them on the wide veranda, dressed in white linen pants and a blue top, looking relaxed and approachable in a way Daniel hadn’t seen before.

James’s children were already down at the dock preparing a sleek power boat for the day’s activities. Welcome to the family retreat, Sophia said warmly. I’m so glad you could come. Emma, momentarily shy, stepped closer to Daniel. Lily’s been asking when you’d arrived, Sophia told her.

She brought some new manga for you to see, and we have a paddle board that’s perfect for beginners if you want to try it. Emma’s eyes lit up. Can I go see, Daddy? Of course, Daniel nodded. Just remember your manners and listen to the adults about water safety. She needed no further encouragement, hurrying down the path toward the dock where Lily had spotted her and was waving enthusiastically.

“She’ll be fine,” Sophia assured him, seeing his instinctive parental concern. “James is a stickler for water safety. Life jackets are mandatory, and we have a dedicated spotter whenever anyone’s in the water.” The day unfolded with surprising ease. James took the children tubing behind the boat, their squeals of delight carrying across the water.

Daniel found himself relaxing, drawn into conversation with Sophia as they sat on the dock, feet dangling in the cool water. “This place is beautiful,” he observed, watching Emma’s face light up as Lily taught her to balance on the paddle board. “Has it been in your family long?” “My grandfather built the original cabin in the 1950s,” Sophie explained.

My father expanded it in the 80s and James and I renovated about 5 years ago. It’s the one place that’s remained constant through everything. Emma and I have moved three times in the past 2 years,” Daniel said, the contrast striking him. “First from faculty housing, then from our house when the medical bills became too much, and finally to our current apartment.

👉 [Tap here for Next Part] 👈