"Is something troubling you, Em? You look upset." Concern etched itself onto his rugged features.
Shaking her head, she wiped the tears from her face. "I'm fine, Dad."
"Are you sure? There's no reason to pretend to be happy just because you're feeling bad." He lowered the paper and stared directly into her eyes. "We love you very much."
Stiffening, Emilia swallowed again and tried her best to keep her voice steady. "Dad, don't. I already told you. It doesn't matter." Her lips twisted into a sad smile. "You don't have to feel guilty, okay?"
He frowned in confusion. "Guilty? What do you mean?"
Furrowing her brows in annoyance, she replied. "Don't be stupid. You don't have to feel guilty for loving me. I already know you care about me."
"That's not what I meant," he protested, frowning
