DAD, YOU LOVE ME THE MOST

"Your Grandma Yang called and insisted that we hand you over to them within twenty-four hours, or they would sever ties with our family. Do you understand what that means for us? We could end up on the streets," Ruwen informed his daughter, his voice a mix of frustration and desperation.

The room's tension was palpable. Catherine, who moments ago had been intoxicated, was now startled into soberness by the gravity of her father's words. Her eyes widened in shock as she realized she had been found out. Panic set in, and she clutched her father's hand, her voice filled with urgency.

"Dad, you can't hand me over to them! No! Dad! You love me the most! You need to hide me!" Catherine pleaded, her voice breaking.

Ruwen looked at his daughter with a mix of concern and sternness, his face etched with the lines of worry. "Why are they looking for you? Enlighten me with what you did before I decide if I can protect you or not," Ruwen said firmly, his eyes boring into hers.