Back in the living room, Judith and Van were happily chatting away, enjoying some delicious treats. But Senator Gregory kept to himself brooding over his thoughts. His head was lowered, and his heart was heavy as he waited patiently for Amelia and her husband to join them.
'What am I going to say to her? Where am I going to start from? I have failed her as a father and I failed my late wife. Will she ever forgive me?' the senator queried his thoughts in agony.
"Amy!"
Judith's thrilled voice forced the senator to look up. He slowly rose to his feet, his trembling hands placed behind his back as he watched Judith and Van make their way forward to welcome his daughter.
Amelia's smile widened as she ran into her aunt's outstretched arms.
"Hello, Aunt Judith. It's so good to see you."
"Me too, my sweet child." Judith embraced Amelia warmly, tears of joy flowing down her cheeks.