Page 22 of Finally Found You

This child is impossible. She can’t understand that they only let me work remotely because my grandmother was sick. The moment I told them I had to deal with her estate and Kenzy, they let me go. My boss probably sensed I wouldn’t just leave Kenzy behind.

When I find Kenz, she’s in what I believe is the office, or maybe the library—a sleek, modern space with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a large desk overlooking the bay. It’s inspiring and calming all at once, and a pang of envy hits me as I think about how perfect it would be to work from here. But I remind myself that our time in this place is momentary.

Earlier, Lysander offered to have someone pack Nonna’s house—at least Kenzy’s belongings. I declined, though. Until we’re sure she’ll stay with him, I don’t want to drag her things around. A lingering question tugs at my heart: Will it be better if I bring her with me—wherever that is?

If she stays, I’ll miss her so much. The bond between us has only grown stronger through adversity, and I’m grateful for the unwavering support we provide for each other. But she has to start her life, and I need to find mine.

I suddenly find myself standing at the window, staring out at the city. A knot forms in my chest, a tangled web of emotions: worry for Kenzy as she gets to know her father, the temporary move to San Francisco, and the uncertainty of our future. But deep down there’s a glimmer of hope—the possibility of healing, growth, and new beginnings.

Kenzy comes up beside me, her eyes reflecting the same mix of emotions I feel. We share a knowing look. It’s the same one we shared when I arrived at Nonna’s because she was ill. We knew things were going to be hard, but we would survive.

With a determined smile, I slip her hand into mine and gently squeeze it.

“We’ll get through this, Kenz. It’s going to be fine,” I say reassuringly, trying to ease her worries and my own.

“Sorry for running away,” she mumbles, her voice tinged with regret.

“I wish you had talked to me before making the decision,” I say honestly, pausing for a moment before adding, “But I’m glad things turned out a lot better than you imagined.”

“You won’t leave me, right?” she asks, apprehension lacing her voice.

I shake my head, my resolve unwavering. “Not unless you ask me to go,” I whisper, and we stand there, hand in hand, as the sun dips below the horizon, ready for the future.

* * *

“Where are you, ladies?” Lysander’s voice echoes through the spacious penthouse as the last rays of sunlight disappear behind the horizon.

“We’re in the office,” I respond.

Kenzy and I move away from the window, and as we’re about to head outside, Lysander enters the room, his tall frame filling the doorway. He’s carrying a set of car keys, a manila envelope, and a box with what I assume is a brand-new phone.

The sight of him stirs something inside me—a confusing mix of attraction and caution, as I struggle to remind myself that we can’t be together. He’s Kenzy’s dad, and that alone should be reason enough to keep my distance.

Kenzy’s eyes widen in surprise as Lysander hands her the phone. “This is for you,” he says gently, with a hint of affection. “So you can stay connected with your friends and family.”

She takes the phone and squeals, her face lighting up with excitement. “Thank you.”

Lysander turns to me next, offering the car keys and credit cards. “These are for both of you,” he explains. “The teal SUV is parked downstairs. It should make getting around the city easier. And the cards… well, buy whatever you need.”

I take the keys and the envelope, feeling the warmth of his hand as he places them in mine. My heart races, and I can’t help but steal a glance at him. His eyes meet mine, and there’s a flicker of something—longing, perhaps, or understanding—before he quickly looks away.

The air between us feels charged, and I struggle to find my voice. “Thank you,” I manage, swallowing hard as I look inside the envelope, finding cash and credit cards. “But I don’t need you to give me all this.”

“You have expenses. I want to make sure they’re covered. The security company you used to locate Kenzy has been paid for, and so was the hotel room,” Lysander says, genuine concern in his eyes.

“But I—” I start to protest, my pride pushing back against his generosity.

“You don’t have the resources to pay,” he interrupts, his tone gentle but insistent. “Please, let me help. It’s the least I can do.”

“We really appreciate everything you’re doing for us,” I reply hesitantly, torn between gratitude and the desire to stand on my own two feet.

His gaze lingers on me for a moment longer before he shifts his attention back to Kenzy. “I just want you both to feel comfortable and supported during this transition,” he says, sincere and filled with determination.

As we stand there, the tension in the room is palpable, and I can’t ignore the internal conflict raging inside me. On the one hand, I’m grateful for Lysander’s generosity and the opportunity he’s giving us. On the other, I know I must resist the undeniable pull I feel toward him for the sake of Kenzy and the delicate balance of our newfound family dynamics.

Kenzy, seemingly oblivious to the undercurrents between her father and me, excitedly examines her new phone. “This is awesome. No more pay-as-you-go plans… and it’s a smartphone,” she exclaims, her eyes shining with gratitude.

Lysander smiles warmly at her, and pride shines in his eyes. It’s clear he’s making an effort to connect with her, to be the father she’s never known. The weight of responsibility hangs heavy in the air, a silent reminder of the stakes at play. As I watch them interact, I silently vow to do everything in my power to protect and support Kenzy. If he screws up, I’ll be there for her.

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