“My grandma used to make this,” she whispered as if sharing a sacred secret. “She said it had special power. Maybe… maybe it can help you speak.”
Sophie hesitated only briefly before leaning forward. Emily tilted the bottle, letting a few drops touch her lips.
At that exact moment, Alexander stormed across the plaza, fury distorting his face.
“What do you think you’re doing?!” he roared.
He slapped the bottle from Sophie’s hands and shoved Emily so hard she fell against the stones. The glass shattered, releasing a bitter herbal scent. Without hesitation, Alexander grabbed the girl’s arm.
“Stay away from my daughter, you filthy street rat! Don’t ever come near her again!”
Trembling, Emily scrambled to her feet and ran.
Alexander turned back to scold Sophie—but froze.
She was clutching her throat. A cough escaped her. Her small body trembled, and then, breaking five years of silence, a fragile sound emerged.
“Da… daddy.”
Alexander’s world stopped.
His knees buckled against the pavement. Tears blurred his vision as he gathered her in his arms.
“Sophie… say it again. Please.”
“Daddy,” she whispered, stronger this time.