Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 879

The weight of his emotions made Jordan Smith's tone turn serious. “Lillian,” he said, looking at the little girl, “you’re still young. You don’t need to learn so many things. You should be using that time for your actual schoolwork. At your age, I was already studying elementary school curriculum. You’re my daughter, and I hope you’ll do the same instead of wasting your time on useless hobbies.” Hearing this, Nathan Gates felt his stomach drop with a sense of foreboding. He instinctively wanted to intervene. A father and daughter needed to communicate, yes, but not like this. Everyone could see the incredible talent Lillian possessed for drawing. The fact that she was actively seeking inspiration showed how much she genuinely loved it. It was one thing for Mr. Smith not to support her, but to dismiss her passion right off the bat was just cruel. Before Nathan could say anything, Lillian spoke up for herself. She clutched the straps of her little backpack, her clear eyes meeting Jordan’s without a trace of fear. “Mommy said I can do anything I want to do, as long as it makes me happy. And Daddy said drawing is good for me and helps me relax. I love drawing.” Jordan's expression darkened. Since they’d met, Lillian hadn't called him 'Daddy' once, yet she used the title so freely for someone else. He furrowed his brow, an inexplicable anger rising within him. Nathan sensed the shift and quickly cut in before his boss could speak. “Mr. Smith… perhaps we can discuss this calmly.” Jordan's temper was momentarily checked. He took a deep breath, forcing down his irritation. “Lillian, you’ve recovered now, haven’t you? Drawing can be a temporary hobby, but it can’t be your everything. Your life is just beginning. You’re a Smith, and when you grow up, you’re expected to join the Smith Group and take on the family business. You can't just do whatever you please.” At his words, Lillian lowered her gaze. She wanted to tell this man that she had no interest in any family business, that all she wanted was to draw forever. But she knew it would be pointless. He would never support her dreams. So, Lillian simply gave a dismissive reply. “Lillian will think about it.” Seeing that she wasn't openly defying him anymore, Jordan seemed satisfied. He softened his expression and reached out to pat her head. “Your mother is busy with work, so she isn't as strict about planning your future. As for your so-called ‘daddy’…” Jordan’s eyes hardened. “Lillian, I am your father. We share the closest blood ties. I am the one who has your best interests at heart. Other people won't think about your long-term future. Remember that.” Lillian pressed her lips together and said nothing, neither nodding nor shaking her head. Instead, she turned away and went back to looking at the exhibits. It was obvious to anyone that she didn't want to talk to him anymore. Nathan watched the scene unfold, wanting to say something but holding his tongue. Was this really the right way to communicate? They had just started their outing, and he was already saying things that would surely push his daughter even further away. Nathan could tell his boss was starting to value this child. Given his health, Lillian might be his only child, and he clearly intended to groom her as his successor. He wanted to pass the Smith family fortune into her hands. His intentions were good, but it depended on whether Lillian wanted it, and more importantly, whether Ms. Davis would agree. He didn't even have custody. Wasn't it too early to apply the rigorous training methods of a wealthy dynasty? Besides, shouldn't his priority be to build a warm, loving relationship first? Who starts by lecturing a child? What kid would ever like a father like that? Nathan wanted to offer a word of caution, but he knew Mr. Smith's personality. Saying too much would be seen as overstepping. In the end, he let it go. Building a bond with a child wasn't something that could be done overnight, especially when he needed to regain her trust. As far as he could see, his boss had a long, arduous road ahead of him. Jordan, of course, saw nothing wrong with his approach. But while he had lectured her, he didn't stop her from continuing to look for inspiration. The morning passed quietly at the museum. As lunchtime approached, Jordan instructed Nathan to book a restaurant and then took Lillian to eat. The restaurant's menu was extensive, and Jordan never skimped on material comforts for his child. He ordered all the signature dishes, including several hearty main courses. Jordan wasn't used to serving a child at the table, and with a waiter present, he didn't give it much thought. “Tell me what you want to eat,” he instructed Lillian. Lillian nodded and began eating slowly with her little spoon. The waiter was very attentive, wearing white gloves as he served a small portion of nearly every dish onto her plate. Knowing that children have small appetites, he carefully cut everything into tiny, manageable pieces for her.