Sophia Sullivan's words cut like a razor-sharp blade.
She knew they were harsh.
But they were unavoidable truths.
Ethan Sullivan's brow furrowed slightly.
"If Mr. Sullivan thinks supporting her financially for life is enough, then why bother treating Emma's autism?" Sophia's voice remained calm. "Wouldn't it be easier to just let her be a beautiful porcelain doll?"
No one wants their loved ones to struggle.
But avoidance solves nothing.
She met Ethan's deep gaze unflinchingly.
"Perhaps it's because, deep down, you also wish she could laugh and run like any other child. To make friends. To truly step out of the shadows instead of hiding forever."
Her words left no room for pretense.
The room fell silent.
Yet something in Ethan stirred.
"...I want what's best for Emma. But I can't let her take risks."
"Can you guarantee she'll never face danger in her lifetime?"
Ethan said nothing.
He knew better than anyone—it was impossible.
What would happen to Emma when he grew old? When he was gone?
Sophia's gaze was crystal clear.
"A lifetime is too long. I've never believed in empty promises. You say you'll protect her forever, but what if something happens? She'll only fall harder."
Her voice was soft yet unshakable.
"If it were me, I'd rather learn self-defense. After all, relying on others is never as reliable as relying on yourself."
Sophia didn't believe in pretty words.
She only trusted what she'd fought for with her own hands.
Ethan's expression darkened.
He understood these truths—he'd just been afraid to face them.
Growth was never painless.
Sophia turned to look at the sleeping Emma.
"Of course, this is just my perspective. Someone like me, who's lived wild, would always choose the wilderness over a gilded cage."
She sighed quietly.
"Every choice carries risks. But you're her brother. The final decision is yours."
"Thank you." Ethan's voice was rough.
He knew all too well that overprotection could also be harm.
He just couldn't bear to see his sister suffer.
"I'll consider it carefully. But not now. She's still too young."
Sophia smiled faintly. "No rush. Her life has only just begun."
Ethan couldn't help wondering—what had this woman endured to speak with such brutal clarity?
As if she'd walked that path herself.
A phone ringtone interrupted his thoughts.
Ethan answered, his expression growing grave.
"Understood."
Hanging up, he turned to Sophia, his tone sharp.
"Your delightful ex-husband and stepsister are at it again."
Sophia had just picked up a piece of fish with her fork.
At his words, her hand stilled.
The fishbone made her pause.
She set it down gently.
"What nonsense are they pulling now?"
Just hearing about those two made her weary.
Liam Winston had saved her once—she wouldn't destroy him.
But that didn't mean she'd tolerate their schemes.
"Ian just informed me Liam hired a lawyer to sue you. Coincidentally, it happens to be from my law firm."
Ethan's eyes narrowed.
"Ian overheard it while collecting financial reports. Our firm declined, but others might take the case."
He studied Sophia.
"You should prepare."