Rewriting My Heart's Fate

"You never intended to make amends. You've hurt me over and over again, and deep down, you've always believed I shouldn't even exist. Isn't that right?"

How could I not know Jack's true intentions? He wished I could disappear. He viewed me as nothing but a stain on his life.

"That's right. I do want you gone. You're not my daughter, and I've wanted to strangle you, so that you never appear in my life again."

His voice was cold and unyielding. His words, sharp as knives, sliced through the last remnants of warmth I held for him.

Standing with my back to him, my fists clenched so tightly that my nails dug deep into my palms. Yet I felt no physical pain, as the ache in my heart far surpassed any bodily sensation.

"Jack, you're wrong. Blood isn't the only measure of family. You, of all people, taught me that, though in the cruelest way possible. You may deny I'm your daughter, but you can't erase the shared memories between us-those moments of laughter and tears were real." I took a deep breath and tried to steady my voice. "And your actions have gone far beyond what family could excuse. They are unforgivable crimes."

I turned. My gaze was unwavering as it met his-those eyes that had once been full of authority were now weighed down with exhaustion.

"Today, I stand here not only to uncover the truth but also to demand justice for myself. I'll see you in court. There, all your lies and deceptions will be laid bare."

With that, I turned and walked away, My steps were resolute.

with its brightness, as if reminding me that no matter how difficult the road ahead, there would always be a

continued to pile up, it wasn't long before the

day of the hearing,

from me at the defense's bench.

judge's gavel striking down, the

in the balance, Jack

argued relentlessly, presenting evidence piece by piece. Every detail was scrutinized,

to the once-familiar, now strange stories that were gradually

attorney

absolve him,

Vol

room for doubt. Their arguments felt hollow and

in my mind. I no longer felt pain. I had learned to confront them, to

was time