Chapter 4: A Father's First Chance
Chapter 4: A Father's First Chance
As security quietly escorted the shocked guests outside, Ryan remained seated alone.
The ballroom had become almost empty.
Only Mariana, Alexander, and the children remained.
Little Emily looked at her mother.
"Mommy..."
"Is he really our daddy?"
Mariana knelt beside her.
"Yes."
Emily walked slowly toward Ryan.
He couldn't stop crying.
She reached into her tiny pocket and pulled out a tissue.
"You look sad."
Ryan accepted it with shaking hands.
"I am."
She tilted her head.
"Did someone hurt you?"
Ryan closed his eyes.
"Yes."
"I hurt myself."
The twins approached next.
Ethan asked,
"Why didn't you want us?"
Ryan broke completely.
"I didn't know you existed."
Elijah frowned.
"But Mommy cried because of you."
Ryan buried his face in his hands.
"I'm so sorry."
Mariana watched quietly.
She had dreamed of revenge for years.
But now...
Watching the children speak with innocent honesty...
She realized vengeance no longer mattered.
Healing did.
May you like
Not for Ryan.
For them.
