A Father's Forced Surrender

## Hazel's POV

The cemetery air felt electric as I stood over my father. My ultimatum hung between us like a guillotine blade. Kneel and apologize for years of cruelty, or face his cancer treatment bills alone.

"One minute," I announced, my voice steady despite the storm of emotions inside me.

Harold and Tanya exchanged desperate glances. Their world was crumbling around them, and I was savoring every second of it.

"This is your daughter's fault," Harold hissed at Tanya, his face contorted with pain and rage. "If Ivy hadn't insisted on marrying Alistair, we wouldn't be in this mess!"

Tanya's eyes widened with indignation. "How dare you blame me! I did everything I could for our family!"

"Everything?" Harold scoffed. "You spoiled Ivy rotten, encouraged her obsession with Hazel's fiancé, and now look where we are!"

I stood silently, watching their alliance fracture before my eyes. Nothing was sweeter than seeing my enemies turn on each other.