Chapter 5 - THE FIRST MELODY
Rosa saw him approaching and instinctively tensed, her protective maternal instincts still on high alert.
Even though Ethan had been nothing but kind since yesterday's revelation, he was still an incredibly intimidating man.
He was a titan of industry, a man used to giving orders and having the world bow at his feet.
But as he approached the blanket, he didn't look like a billionaire CEO.
He looked like a nervous, hopeful man.
He lowered his tall frame onto the blanket beside Rosa, crossing his long legs awkwardly.
"Good morning," Ethan said softly, his eyes immediately darting to Lily.
"Good morning, Mr. Caldwell," Rosa replied out of habit.
Ethan winced slightly at the formal title.
"Ethan," he corrected her gently. "Please, Rosa, just Ethan."
Lily stopped chasing the butterfly and waddled over to the blanket, clutching her beloved stuffed rabbit.
She stood in front of Ethan, tilting her head to the side as she studied his face.
"You tall," Lily announced proudly, her tiny voice clear and bright.
Ethan let out a sudden, genuine laugh, a deep rumbling sound that startled Rosa because she had never heard it before.
"I am very tall," Ethan agreed, smiling warmly at the little girl.
He slowly extended his hand toward her, keeping his movements predictable and unthreatening.
"Do you want to see something special inside, Lily?" he asked.
Lily looked back at her mother for permission, and Rosa gave a slow, encouraging nod.
Lily bravely placed her tiny, soft hand into Ethan's massive, calloused palm.
Ethan's heart swelled so violently he thought it might burst through his ribcage.
He gently lifted her into his arms, holding her securely against his broad chest, and helped Rosa to her feet.
Together, the three of them walked back into the grand mansion, passing the staring staff members, and headed straight for the east parlor.
The grand black piano sat exactly where it always did, shining under the morning light.
Ethan walked over to the velvet bench and sat down, carefully settling Lily onto his lap.
"Your mommy told me you like the piano," Ethan said softly, pointing to the keys.
Lily nodded enthusiastically, reaching her tiny fingers out to touch the smooth white ivory.
"My mother taught me how to play when I was a little boy," Ethan whispered, the painful memories suddenly feeling a little less heavy.
He took Lily's small hand in his and gently guided her index finger to a middle C key.
Together, they pressed down, and a beautiful, clear note echoed through the massive, quiet room.
Lily gasped in pure delight, her eyes lighting up with wonder.
Rosa stood by the doorway, leaning against the wooden frame, watching the man she thought she knew transform right before her eyes.
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Ethan Caldwell wasn't a cold, empty mansion anymore.
He was finally coming alive.
