Chapter 150: The Court Case XIII
"Six years ago, I never slept with Athena," Lucas started, clasping his hands behind his back, resolutely ignoring the murmurs that erupted once again after that bold declaration.
He had come prepared—prepared to withstand any insult, any blame, any punishment at all—if it would grant him the custody of his daughter.
Athena had allowed him a video call with Kendra, a heartwarming experience he would cherish forever.
At first, the little beauty had been hesitant, her voice tinged with uncertainty, but in moments, she had transformed. Laughter had flowed freely, and the sound of her joy had brightened the dim shadows of his memories.
Her laughter kept him focused straight ahead now, his composure unwavering, even as a sharp shoe landed squarely on his right cheek.
Yet Lucas didn’t bother twisting around to see who had thrown it, nor did he ponder who had called him stupid, nor did he wonder why Athena was letting the congregation stone him shoes. No, he kept his eyes locked on Elder Timothy. After all, Athena owed him nothing. If anything, it was he who owed her.
"Six years ago, I returned from my studies abroad. Even before dropping in to see my own family, I asked to see Athena," Lucas continued, his voice steady. "She was my best friend and my confidante—the one who had pushed me to study physics, even giving me textbooks from her collection..."
"Collection? What collection? We were told she’s an illiterate!" A voice echoed from the back, piercing through the gathering’s thick tension.
All eyes turned toward Zack, who, until that moment, had remained inconspicuous, hidden in the crowd.