"Bella, I've seen more of this world than you can imagine. Trust me when I say I want what's best for you, and getting involved in this scandal will lead to a life you can't even fathom," he said, his face twisted in a grimace as if he had just tasted something bitter.
"No, Dad..." I wanted to defend, but he cut me off in the middle.
"Bella, I thought I raised you better than to doubt your father," he challenged, leaving me speechless.
His words hit me hard, leaving my heart heavy. I wanted to argue, to defend my choices, but Dad's expression silenced me. Ric glanced at me with understanding, but it didn't ease the weight in my chest. I stared at the untouched breakfast before me, my appetite vanished.
Pushing the bowl away, I stood up, ignoring Dad's sharp gaze as he ordered me, "Bell
