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.

as if reminding me that no matter

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

day of the hearing,

who sat across from me at the defense's bench. His face was as haggard as ever, but his eyes now carried a complex mix

gavel striking

fate hung in the balance, Jack wasn't about

presenting evidence piece by piece.

strange stories that were gradually revealed, my heart swelled with

attorney tried

to absolve

Vol

room for doubt. Their arguments felt hollow

quietly, letting the memories swirl in my mind. I no longer felt pain. I had learned to confront them, to

time for