Kneeling for a Second Chance (Sebastian and Valeria) novel Chapter 264

"Sebastian, if you want to see Lenny next time, just let me know in advance. I'll… make time," Valeria said.

Sebastian replied, "I'm heading abroad for a while. I probably won't be back anytime soon."

She froze.

In that split second of hesitation, he wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her against him. He rested his chin on her shoulder, his arms locking her in.

Then, he said, "Valeria, Lenny will always be your daughter. No one will ever take her from you—I promise."

Sebastian buried his face in her hair, breathing in her scent like he couldn't get enough. Out of her sight, his eyes went red, and when he finally spoke again, his voice was rough. "Valeria, can you hug me?"

People were greedy by nature.

At first, all he wanted was to take Selena to the amusement park before he left. Then, dropping Selena off, he couldn't resist one last look at Valeria.

Then, he wanted to hold her. After that, he wanted her to hold him back.

Valeria's fingers hung loosely at her side.

Then, Sebastian's voice rang out again. "Please, Valeria… Just hold me once."

She slowly lifted her hand, pressed it lightly against his back, then let it fall away.

After that, Sebastian left, but not before giving Valeria a bank card.

…

Selena was his daughter, and he would make sure child support was deposited every month.

He told Valeria that Slate City was a good city and that there would be room for Selena's talent to grow here.

Sebastian was the one who needed to leave. Their paths wouldn't cross again—at least for the time being. There would not be any more accidental encounters, only thousands of miles keeping them apart.

It was Valeria who taught him what love really meant.

He had never appreciated the quiet affection Jane had shown him. He wanted to love her, to respect her, and to give her the freedom she longed for.

He could use his power to keep Valeria by his side, but if he did, she'd hate him for the rest of her life.

…

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