After that heartfelt conversation, Vincent couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and belonging that he hadn't experienced before, especially from a father figure. Lucian's words and the way he treated him—like a son—were nothing like how his own father had ever spoken to him. It was as if, in that moment, Vincent truly had a family who saw him for who he was, not just as a tool to achieve greatness.
Lucian took another sip from his drink, his gaze thoughtful. "I know you've lived a life full of expectations, Vincent. But you should know that, here, you don't have to be anyone other than who you are. Anastasia…" He paused, his tone becoming more serious, the weight of the conversation settling between them. "She means everything to me. More than anything. She's my world, and I'm not just saying that as a father. I've seen how she's grown—how she's turned into someone so extraordinary—and I know, Vincent, that if there's anyone who can take care of her, it's you."
Vincent felt his chest tighten, but it wasn't with discomfort. It was the kind of emotion that both thrilled and terrified him. He'd always known he loved Anastasia, but now, hearing it from Lucian, the man who meant everything to her, made the gravity of the situation hit him fully.
"I'm not asking you to be perfect," Lucian continued, his voice firm but kind. "But I am asking you to always keep her safe, to love her with everything you have. Do you understand?"
Vincent nodded slowly, feeling a sense of responsibility settle on his shoulders like a weight he hadn't expected but was willing to bear. "I understand," he said quietly. "I'll do whatever it takes, Mr. Vasiliev. I'll protect her with everything in me."
Lucian's eyes softened again, and he smiled. "That's all I could ever ask for, Vincent."
There was a long pause, and Vincent felt an overwhelming sense of belonging in that moment. He'd never realized how much he'd yearned for a father's approval until now. It wasn't the approval of a powerful man, but the love of someone who truly cared for his daughter, who trusted Vincent to take care of her as she deserved.
"You're more like a son to me than I expected," Lucian added, a little chuckle escaping his lip "i don't have a son as you know , Anastasia is my only child " but if i had one… I'm not sure he'd ever understand the way you do. But you, Vincent, you've already proven that you can."
Vincent felt the knot in his chest loosen as he finally allowed himself to relax. Lucian's words meant more to him than he could express. It wasn't just that Lucian accepted him—it was that he cared, truly cared, about him being part of their family. He had never known this kind of warmth from his own father.
"Thank you," Vincent said softly, his voice filled with sincerity. "I won't let you down."
Lucian nodded and raised his glass. "I'm sure you won't, son. I'm sure you won't."