Page 9 of Protect Me Daddy

My eyes stung with fresh tears, but this time, they were tears of relief, of feeling truly seen for the first time in my life.

I opened my mouth to respond, but Dwight's expression suddenly hardened. His piercing eyes locked onto mine, intense and unwavering.

"Tilly," he said, his voice low and firm. "You're not safe at that bar anymore. They know where you live. They might try again."

A chill ran down my spine. I wrapped my arms around myself, suddenly feeling exposed in my own apartment. Dwight's jaw clenched, a muscle ticking in his cheek as he continued.

"I want you to stay with me. Come to my place. For as long as you need."

My heart raced. Part of me thrilled at the idea, but another part—the part that had learned to be wary, to protect myself—balked. "Dwight, I . . . I can't just-"

"Not just for protection," he cut me off, his voice softening. He reached out, gently cupping my face in his large, calloused hand. "I want to take care of you, Tilly. In every way."

My breath caught in my throat. The meaning behind his words was clear - he wanted to be my Daddy, my protector. Not just for play, but for real. I felt a dizzying mix of desire and fear.

"But . . . we barely know each other," I whispered, even as I leaned into his touch.

Dwight's thumb stroked my cheek. "I know enough," he said. "I know you're brave, and strong, and that you deserve to feel safe. Let me give you that, little one."

I closed my eyes, torn between the urge to throw myself into his arms and the instinct to run. Could I really trust him? Could I let myself be this vulnerable?

My emotions swirled as I looked up into Dwight's eyes. There was such tenderness there, mixed with a fierce protectiveness that made my knees weak. I saw in him what I'd always longed for - someone who could understand and embrace both sides of me.

"You really see me, don't you?" I whispered, my voice trembling.

Dwight nodded, his expression softening. "I do, sweetheart. The strong woman who's survived so much, and the little girl who needs care. Both are beautiful, both are you."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I realized I'd found someone who truly got me. I saw the same duality in him—the fierce protector and the gentle caregiver.

"Okay," I said softly. "I'll stay with you."

Relief washed over Dwight's face. He pulled me into a tight embrace, and I melted against his broad chest.

"We need to set some ground rules," he murmured into my hair. "Both for your safety and our . . . dynamic."

I nodded, my cheek pressed against his shirt. "Like what?"

Dwight's voice took on a more authoritative tone, but it wasn't harsh - just firm and caring. "First, you don't go anywhere without letting me know. No exceptions. Second, you'll have a curfew . . ."

As he laid out the rules, I felt a sense of security settling over me. His authority wasn't controlling—it was comforting, making me feel protected in a way I'd never experienced before.

I nodded, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness flutter in my stomach. "I should pack some things, right?"

Dwight's eyes crinkled with a gentle smile. "Of course, little one. Let's get you sorted."

We moved to my cramped bedroom, the floorboards creaking beneath our feet. I hesitated at my dresser, suddenly self-conscious about my meager possessions.

"What should I bring?" I asked, my voice small.

Dwight's large hand rested reassuringly on my shoulder. "Essentials first. Clothes, toiletries. And anything that makes you feel safe and comfortable."

My gaze drifted to Red Rabbit, propped against my pillow. Dwight followed my line of sight and his expression softened further.

“Red Rabbit?” I asked.

"Definitely Red Rabbit," he said, reaching for my stuffie. "And what's this?"

He'd spotted my battered copy of fairy tales on the nightstand. I felt my cheeks warm. "It's silly . . ."

---