Chapter 16 - First Light
The morning sun filtered through the hospital blinds, casting a golden glow over the quiet room. Elara lay exhausted but radiant against the hospital pillows, cradling a tiny bundle wrapped in a soft pink blanket.
Daniel sat on the edge of the bed, his broad shoulders hunched forward as he stared at the baby girl. She had a shock of dark hair, just like her mother.
"Do you want to hold her?" Elara asked softly.
Daniel hesitated, looking at his large hands—hands that had built a criminal empire and ruined men's lives. "I don't want to break her."
"You won't," Elara promised, gently shifting the bundle into his arms.
Daniel took the baby with excruciating care. As the newborn blinked open sleepy, dark eyes and curled a tiny fist around his index finger, the last remnants of ice around Daniel's heart melted completely. He brought the baby’s hand to his lips, closing his eyes.
"Have you decided on a name?" he asked, his voice rough with emotion.
May you like
"Lily," Elara said, smiling. "Lily Sterling, if you'll let us share your name."
Daniel looked up, his chest tight. "You already share my life, Elara. The name is yours."
