Page 14 of Protect Me Daddy

I looked up, startled. "Really?"

He nodded, a shadow crossing his face. "The things I deal with in vice . . . they can be soul-crushing. But nurturing you, protecting you—it reminds me there's still good in the world."

My heart clenched. "Is that why you stepped in with Earl?"

Dwight's jaw tightened. "Partly. Seeing him target you triggered every protective instinct I have. But it also ignited my rage at traffickers, at anyone who preys on the vulnerable."

I nestled closer, overwhelmed by the depth of his care. "You make me feel so safe," I whispered.

"That's all I want, baby girl," Dwight murmured, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "To keep you safe and help you heal."

As I drifted back to sleep in his arms, I felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, with Dwight's guidance, I could find a way to confront my fears and emerge stronger.

Chapter 5

Before spending time inLittlespace, Dwight insisted that he take me shopping. He took me to a ridiculously expensive, swanky boutique on Park Street. I felt so out of my depth, but Dwight didn’t have a hint of nerves on his face. He made me feel strong.

The boutique's glass doors swung open, a chime announcing our arrival. I hesitated at the threshold, overwhelmed by racks of designer clothes and the scent of expensive perfume.

"Come on, princess," Dwight urged gently, his hand warm on the small of my back. "Let's get you some new things."

I bit my lip, eyeing a price tag. "Dwight, this is too much. I can't—"

"Shh," he soothed, steering me towards a display of soft sweaters. "Let me do this for you. It's important."

A saleswoman approached, all perfect makeup and practiced smile. "Can I help you find anything specific today?"

Dwight's voice was calm, authoritative. "We're looking for a complete wardrobe refresh. Practical pieces, but also . . ." hiseyes met mine, a hint of mischief there, "some special items for my little one."

My cheeks burned as understanding bloomed on the saleswoman's face. But there was no judgment, just a knowing nod. "Of course, sir. Right this way."

What followed was a whirlwind of fabrics and fittings. Dwight insisted on classics – tailored blazers, crisp blouses, things I'd never been able to afford. But then came the "little" items: a selection of sundresses—one pink, one blue, one yellow—that made me feel like a princess, fuzzy socks in a rainbow of colors, delicate hair ribbons that Dwight ran through his fingers with a tender smile.

In the dressing room, I stared at my reflection, hardly recognizing myself in a cashmere sweater that felt like a cloud against my skin.

"Dwight," I called softly, "this is honestly too much—"

He appeared in the doorway, eyes warm. "Is that a defiant tone, young lady?”

I felt a prickle of heat on my cheeks. “No Daddy.”

“Good girl. You do as Daddy says. And remember, providing for you isn't just about your needs. It fulfills something in me, too. Let me take care of you this way."

I swallowed hard. "I'm not used to this," I admitted.

Dwight cupped my face in his hands. "I know, baby girl. But you deserve good things. Let yourself have them."

Back at his penthouse that evening, I twirled shyly in the pink sundress, feeling both ridiculous and cherished. Dwight watched from the couch, pride evident in every line of his body.

"Beautiful," he murmured. Then, his voice gentle but firm: "Tilly, I'd like us to spend tomorrow in Littlespace. No pressure, just exploration. Let me show you how peaceful it can be."

My stomach fluttered with nerves, but I found myself nodding. "Okay," I whispered.

Dwight opened his arms, and I curled against him, listening as he outlined plans for our special day. As I drifted off, safe and warm, I realized I was no longer afraid of letting go.

The next morning, I woke to find Dwight arranging items on my dresser with careful precision. My heart fluttered at the sight of the pale pink sundress, fuzzy pink socks, and satin hair ribbons laid out with such tenderness.

Dwight's strong hands smoothed imaginary wrinkles from the dress as he placed it just so. The protective instinct radiating from his muscular frame made me feel small and cherished. When he turned and saw me watching, his stern features softened into a warm smile.

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