Chapter 402
"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.
The moment I exited the room, sunlight streamed through the window. It warmed my face with its brightness, as if reminding me that no matter how difficult the road ahead, there would always be a ray of light to guide my way.
As the evidence continued to pile up, it wasn't long before the trial arrived.
On the day of the hearing, the courtroom was solemn and tense.
Seated at the plaintiff's table, I fixed my gaze on Jack, 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 of emotions. en
With the judge's gavel striking down, the trial officially began.
Knowing his fate hung in the balance, Jack wasn't about to give up without a fight.
The attorneys argued relentlessly, presenting evidence piece by piece. Every detail was scrutinized, and every statement was dissected.
As I listened to the once-familiar, now strange stories that were gradually revealed, my heart swelled with conflicting emotions.
His defense attorney tried every
tactic to absolve him, but the
Vol
overwhelming evidence left little room for doubt. Their arguments felt hollow and futile.
Meanwhile, I sat there quietly, letting the memories swirl in my mind. I no longer felt pain. I had learned to confront them, to let them go.
Finally, it was time for the statements.
I rose and faced the court. My voice was clear and unwavering.
"I'm here today to show that blood relations should never be used as an excuse to harm others. Jack, you were once a significant figure in my life, but your actions have betrayed the very essence of family. I hope you'll be held accountable for the pain you've caused."
After speaking, I sat down. I felt an unexpected sense of relief.
I knew that no matter the verdict, I had taken a crucial step for myself and for those who had suffered because of me.
The trial continued. And eventually, the judge delivered the final verdict, convicting Jack of his crimes.