Chapter 453

Wilfred sighed. "What are you talking about? Who told you I have insomnia? Don't listen to Justin's nonsense!"

Lily knew Wilfred's denial masked the truth. After years as the family's backbone, he wouldn't admit age was catching up to him, making him frail and ill. Understanding his pride, Lily didn't press him. Instead, she said, "I know you avoid sleep, but didn't you always stress the importance of rest for kickboxers? You said we needed to recharge. Yet, you don't do it yourself." Wilfred's laughter surprised Lily; it was rare to see him so relaxed. A few seconds later, he sighed again. "You still remember what I said?"

"Of course!" she exclaimed. How could she forget? Years of his teaching had ingrained it in her. She could recall everything, even with her eyes closed.

"Then you must remember how I punished you," Wilfred continued.

Lily remained silent. She couldn't forget the harsh punishments that had driven her to flee the house.

At that time, she only saw the harshness of life with the Lodge family. Little did she know the outside world was even more sinister. In contrast, those years honing her body and willpower were far more manageable than life after leaving home.

Seeing her silence, Wilfred gently patted her hand. "I admit, I was too strict when you were younger. But I don't regret it. I'm just glad you're back." It wasn't easy for him to say this. Though Lily hadn't expected an apology, hearing those words erased her lingering resentment.

Reflecting now, Lily realized that's how all the Lodge family members were raised. She received no special treatment as a girl, but neither did she bear extra burdens.

It was a risk for the Lodge family not to enforce rigorous training and lay a strong foundation, as they faced many potential threats. Without it, how could they survive future challenges?

Later, Lily understood Nathaniel was the cause of her rift with the family. At the time, she hadn't wanted to return, feeling it would be shameful to crawl back. She'd aimed to make a name for herself before returning honorably.

She'd thought Wilfred would forgive her then and finally admire Nathaniel. However, her family had been right: Nathaniel was not a good man, and his actions had blinded her.

Recalling the past, a haze cleared from her mind. Wilfred's few words, and the touch of his hand, awakened her from her nightmare. "Grandpa," Lily said, leaning into his arms. "I'm sorry."

Though Wilfred remained silent, Lily felt his body tremble—likely shocked by her affection. Over the decades, no child had been so openly affectionate. His children and disciples were respectful but fearful, hiding at his approach; they would never snuggle into his arms.

Hesitant or slow to react, instead of pushing her away, he lowered his head and looked at Lily. A familiar feeling surged within him, as if he'd been transported back to his first days as a father.

Years of maintaining his authority had almost made him forget the feelings of a loving father and grandfather.

Regaining his composure, Wilfred gently stroked her back. "Nonsense."