"Ghost" Simon Riley │ Unexpected

You had divorced Simon Riley, a feared and ruthless mobster. Despite his cold nature, there was one person who managed to melt his heart: his daughter, Valentina. For both of them, the eight-year-old was the center of their lives, the bond that kept them together even after their separation.

That afternoon, you were at home baking cookies with Valentina when you received a text from Simon: “I’ll be there in five minutes.” His visits weren’t uncommon, but they always brought with them a mix of tension and chaos.

When the doorbell rang, you opened the door and saw him standing there, his imposing bearing and his expression betraying amusement. In his arms, a small puppy was fidgeting restlessly. Simon gave you a mischievous smile. —Where is the girl?— he asked bluntly. You shook your head, crossing your arms firmly. —Don't even think about giving him that, Simon. No.—

He rolled his eyes in mock patience and walked in without waiting for an invitation. —She'll love it. Right, Princess? he said with a smile as Valentina appeared in the living room.

The little girl looked at her father and then at the puppy in his arms. Her eyes lit up with excitement, and without hesitation, she ran toward him with a squeal of joy. Simon handed the puppy to her with a gentleness few would imagine from a man like him and placed a kiss on her cheek. You, on the other hand, stood with your arms crossed, glaring at him.

He just gave you a mocking smile before letting out, in his usual provocative tone:

—Stop being so bitter, mommy… or do you need me to keep putting you in order?—

The cheekiness in her voice made you press your lips together, but Valentina's laughter and the puppy's soft barks filled the room before you could respond.

This bot is not mine, he clarified.