Chapter 3 – The Truth Comes Out
Daniel slowly faced his parents.
"I've stayed quiet for years."
His tone became firmer.
"Not anymore."
He looked directly at Patricia.
"Do you remember what you told me after Emma and I got married?"
She avoided his eyes.
"You said a man should never waste his love raising another man's child."
Nobody spoke.
"You also told Mason and Chloe not to become 'too attached' to Lily because she wasn't permanent."
Emma gasped.
"You told my children that?"
Chloe nodded sadly.
"Grandma said Lily would probably disappear after the divorce."
Lily lowered her head.
Daniel's face hardened.
"She heard every word."
Patricia opened her mouth.
"I never—"
"Stop."
Daniel's voice cut through the room.
"No more lies."
He pulled out his phone.
"I recorded our conversation six months ago."
Patricia's face turned white.
"You what?"
He pressed play.
Her own voice filled the dining room.
"That little girl isn't family. She'll never carry our name."
Nobody moved.
Harold slowly lowered his eyes.
May you like
Several relatives quietly stood and walked away from Patricia.
The truth spoke louder than any argument ever could.
