Josephine felt a sharp sting in her heart at her grandfather's words. She stared at him in disbelief, her voice trembling with equal parts anger and heartbreak. "Grandpa, how could you say such a thing? Just because I'm not a virgin doesn't mean my dignity can be trampled on! I can't believe my ears. I'm so disappointed in you!"
Aaron opened his mouth to speak, but she cut him off sharply.
"Don't say another word, Grandpa! Don't force me to leave the Thompson family!" Her voice rang out, firm and unwavering, though her eyes burned with unshed tears. Fury blazed in her gaze as she turned on her heel and stormed away, refusing to look back.
Aaron watched her retreating figure with regret etched into every line of his face. Helplessness and guilt warred within him. He knew his demands were
