Anna, tears still brimming but now fueled by a sense of vindication, shook her head. “A misunderstanding that’s gone on for too long, Michael. I trusted you, and you shattered that trust.”

Daniel placed a comforting hand on his daughter’s shoulder. “Anna, you don’t have to endure this anymore. You and your child deserve far better.”

Michael’s bravado was gone, his voice now pleading. “Daniel, let’s talk about this privately. We can sort this out.”