A silent tear slipped down my cheek. The day had started with so much promise, so much joy, and now it was overshadowed by a revelation that threatened to unravel everything. I thought of Emily, dancing under the twinkling lights, her laughter ringing in the night. She deserved happiness, truth, and love—real love.

“I’ll be there for her,” I vowed quietly, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on my shoulders. Dad nodded, reaching over to squeeze my hand, a silent pledge of solidarity.