Archie Lockwood turned to see Rory's pitiful little expression...
His memory of Rory was still of the baby he used to hold in his arms, but now she was so grown up and beautiful.
A warmth bloomed in his chest. He sat back on the sofa, reached out to ruffle Rory's hair, and asked softly, "Rory, what do you usually do at home?"
Rory lifted her little hand and smacked his away. She shied back, ignoring him.
Archie didn't get angry, though. A smile still played on his lips as he asked, "Do you like playing with other kids, Rory?"
Rory furrowed her little brow, thought for a moment, and gave a sad little nod.
"How about this? Tomorrow, Daddy will find you a playmate, okay?"
"Mm-hmm..." Rory blinked, her eyes wet with tears, and nodded.
Archie reached out and pulled her closer. "Don't be sad anymore. You're Archie Lockwood's daughter. You have to be strong."
After leaving the villa, Eleanor Bishop collapsed onto the pavement, sobbing her heart out.
