I used to think silence was peaceful. I used to love it even especially when I lived in my father's house.

Now it feels like punishment.

The villa is quiet tonight, too quiet. Mila is asleep in her new room down the hall, the soft glow of night-lights painting her walls with dancing stars. I made sure she has everything she needs. A caretaker, a chef, a tutor. A beautiful life. The life I thought I would give my daughter.

My daughter.

I still stumble on that.

She isn’t mine biologically. I ...