AIDEN As expected, Dad refuses to grant me his permission. "No," he objects firmly. After visiting Mom, Dad suggested we have a meal together at a nearby restaurant. I obliged, primarily because I had a crucial matter to discuss with him. Also, I don't want to antagonize his attempt to bridge the gap that has developed between us over the years. Dad had given me no reason to outrightly hate him, except for the fact that he cheated on Mom. Circumstances had led him to do that, and if Beatrice had been a supportive partner beyond her penchant for lavish spending, he might have been a faithful partner in his marriage. Moreover, he had explained the reason behind his detachment from me during my childhood. Although that doesn't excuse the hurt caused by his lack of attention and di

