Mark: What about our business contract, Arthur? Are you pulling your firm's funding?
Arthur: Absolutely not. In fact, I am doubling your engineering firm's retainer starting this week.
Mark: Why would you do that after what happened?
Arthur: Because you showed me what a real man and a real father looks like. You stood up to my entire family to protect your child. I respect that more than anything.
Mark: Does Chloe know you are here?
Arthur: Chloe is no longer working at my firm. I cut off her corporate trust fund this morning until she gets professional help and takes responsibility for her actions.
Mark: She must be furious.
Arthur: She was screaming when I packed her bags, but I don't care anymore. She needs to learn that actions have severe consequences.
Lily slowly walked into the hallway, hiding behind Mark's leg as she looked up at Arthur with wide, curious eyes.
Lily: Daddy? Who is that man?
Mark: This is Mr. Arthur, sweetie. He brought something very special back to us.
Mark knelt down beside Lily, placing the gold locket back around her neck and snapping the clasp shut gently.
Lily: My mommy's necklace! You found it!
Arthur: I am very sorry for how my daughter treated you, little one. You didn't deserve any of that.
Lily: Thank you, mister.
Arthur smiled sadly, bowing his head toward Mark before turning to walk back to his car.
Arthur: Take good care of her, Mark. You are a great father.
Mark: Thank you, Arthur. For doing the right thing.
Mark closed the front door, locking it firmly behind him. He picked Lily up in his arms, spinning her around until she let out a bright, loud laugh that filled the quiet home.
Lily: Daddy! Stop, you're tickling me!
Mark: Never! We are going to go to the park, eat ice cream, and celebrate!
Lily: Can I get two scoops of strawberry?
Mark: You can have three scoops if you want, sweetie.