#Chapter 232: Family Matters

Ella POV The warm glow of the restaurant’s chandeliers cast a golden hue over the elegantly set tables. I sat beside Alexander, my fingers absentmindedly tracing the edge of my wine glass as I watched Lexie beam with pure delight. The little girl twirled in her chair, the soft pink dress Alexander had bought her fluttering as she turned. “I look like a magic princess!” Lexie declared for what must have been the tenth time, her blue eyes wide with joy. “You do,” Alexander said warmly, leaning toward her with a smile that made my heart swell. “The most magical princess I’ve ever seen.” I couldn’t help but admire the way he looked at Lexie, the way he was so effortlessly falling into the role of her father despite the unexpected circumstances. It was clear to me that he loved his daughter already, and I could see how much Lexie adored him in return. Just as I was about to reach for my drink, I spotted movement near the entrance of the restaurant. My hear