16#16

16

When Melanie regained consciousness, David alone entered her hospital room.

He remained there for thirty minutes.

Leona was anxious and restless, her thoughts whirling as she contemplated how to conceal her misdeeds.

As David eventually emerged with a grave expression, Leona lifted her gaze to meet his.

Her pulse quickened as she began to speak uncertainly, "Dad, how's Mom doing?"

David's complexion was ashen, his eyes fixed sternly on the woman before him. "Don't address me as Dad! Do you think we're all gullible?"

Although Leona had witnessed her father's anger before, his shouting still made her recoil, despite her attempts to steel herself.

The assurance she had displayed earlier while confronting Melanie at home had vanished. Tears immediately welled up in her eyes, as David had always been an authoritative figure.

"No, I truly care about you and Mom," she faltered.

These words may have swayed Melanie, but they held no sway over him.