Chapter 608: Remorse
"Did you not for a moment think that she might not have wanted to go out with you? I mean jumping from liking a girl to assuming that she has some feelings for her stepfather is quite a jump...."
Before Pierce could answer, Gregory stood up, his face a mask of sorrow and regret. "Your Honor, if I may," he began, his voice heavy with emotion. Gabe turned to look at the man and almost stopped. Dar*! This rat should have been an actor... His expression was exactly spot on as that of a martyr. His eyes narrowed as he turned to look at the judge, whose expression had softened too.
Sigh! It seemed they would have to prepare for a dramatic and hypocritical performance. He walked back to the table and sat next to Autumn who was even now glaring at the man.
Gabe leaned in closer to Autumn, whispering softly, "Easy there, tiger. Save that anger for later. We don’t want you burning holes into anyone just yet."
He winked at her as she sent him a surprised look and then once again held her wrist, offering her comfort while Gregory began, in an almost sobbing voice,"I want to apologize for what my lawyer is trying to do. I was not in favor of this approach, and it breaks my heart to see it come to this. This entire situation has been a terrible misunderstanding, one that has caused immense pain to everyone involved."
Gregory paused, his eyes glistening with unshed tears while Auutmn muttered, under her breath, "He can even produce tears on demand?" Gregory, however, continued, "My wife and I... we had our differences. We drifted apart, and in our distance, I made mistakes. I should have been more present, more understanding. The rumors about Autumn and me are just that—rumors. They began because people saw a young girl who was struggling, and they misinterpreted her actions. Autumn never tried to seduce me. She was just a child seeking guidance, seeking love."
Gregory’s voice cracked then, and he took a moment to compose himself. "I wanted nothing more than for my daughters to be happy. When the rumours began, I took a step back, not because I didn’t care, but because I wanted them to be happy and at peace."
He then turned to look at Autumn with tears in his eyes. The look almost made Autumn throw up as she tightly held Gabe’s hand, trying not to show her revulsion," I wanted both my daughters to have the chance to be happy. I failed in many ways, but I never stopped loving them. The misunderstandings between my wife and me made everything worse. We couldn’t communicate, and in that silence, the rumors festered. I know Autumn blames me for everything."
"In fact, I blame myself for it too. But I cannot let Autumn use my little Arabelle to get back at me. "This isn’t about me or Autumn. It’s about Arabelle, and what’s best for her. I only want what’s best for my daughter, and I know deep down, Autumn does too. But we must face the reality of the situation, not be swayed by anger and past grievances."