Chapter 239

Dominic reached into his pocket and pulled out two pieces of candy, pressing them into Sophia's trembling hand.

The moment the sweets touched her palm, Sophia finally released her tight grip on his fingers.

Watching her disappear through the doors of the treatment center, Dominic's chest tightened with unease.

This was the first time he had ever brought her to see a psychiatrist.

And not just any psychiatrist—one of the most renowned specialists in the country.

Would she be able to break through the walls in Sophia's mind?

Thirty minutes later, the doors swung open again.

Sophia rushed out, her small frame colliding with Dominic's as she buried her face against his chest.

Her breathing was steady, her emotions surprisingly calm.

No tears. Just the faintest tremble of fear lingering in her posture.

Dominic wrapped his arms around her, one hand gently stroking her back.

"It's okay, Sophia. I never left."

The doctor gestured for Dominic to take a seat on the nearby couch.

"Mr. Blackwood, I reviewed the documents you sent last night. After speaking with Sophia just now, I don't believe psychiatric treatment is what she needs at this stage. Her condition isn't purely psychological. She requires medical intervention first—proper surgical care. Once her physical health stabilizes, she may not even need therapy."

"Did she say anything to you?" Dominic asked, his voice low.

The doctor shook her head. "I had her respond by nodding or shaking her head. She was very cooperative."

She handed Dominic a sheet of paper—a questionnaire filled with simple questions and Sophia's silent answers.

Favorite memories. People she loved. Her deepest fears.

Every response pointed back to him.

"Her neurological condition overshadows any psychological concerns," the doctor assured. "There's no need for excessive worry, Mr. Blackwood."

Dominic stood, tucking the paper into his coat. "Thank you."

Just as he turned to leave, the clinic doors opened again.

A woman stepped inside, holding the hand of a small boy.

Before Dominic could react, Sophia had already broken away from him, moving toward the child with a sudden, radiant smile.

Evelyn had booked this appointment the moment they returned to the country.

Henry's struggles in school had become impossible to ignore.

Every time she heard of a reputable specialist, she brought him, hoping for a breakthrough.

Now, Sophia stood before Henry, beaming as if she'd known him forever.

Evelyn froze.

What was Sophia doing here? Had Dominic brought her?

Then she saw him—tall, imposing, stepping forward to gently pull Sophia back to his side.

Dominic's gaze flickered to Evelyn before settling on Henry. "Your son should see a psychiatrist."

There was no malice in his tone.

Only cold observation.

Henry's behavioral issues were obvious. Early intervention was logical.

But Evelyn heard only judgment.

"Does the CEO of Blackwood Group really have nothing better to do than mock a four-year-old?"

A muscle twitched in Dominic's jaw. "I wasn't mocking him. I'm here with Sophia."

Evelyn pressed her lips together, tightening her grip on Henry's hand as she steered him around them.

Thirty minutes later, the treatment room door reopened.

Evelyn emerged, the doctor following with another questionnaire.

"Miss Thorne, your child's differences don't equate to psychological disorders," the doctor said kindly.

Evelyn scanned the paper, murmured her thanks, and led Henry toward the exit.

They had barely taken two steps outside when a shadow fell across their path.

Dominic stood before them, his expression unreadable.