Why? Jenna’s little brow furrowed in confusion. “Aren’t families supposed to live together?
Family…
Gilbert’s eyes grew wet. He felt a crushing guilt toward his daughter-he was about to let her down.
Jenna. He rested a trembling hand on her tiny shoulder, struggling to find the words. Daddy and Mommy can’t get married anymore. From now on… we won’t be a family.
In his heart, they would always be his family-his only, his forever loves. But now, he had no choice but to break her heart.
Not married… not a family… Jenna’s small shoulders shook, and her wide eyes brimmed with tears. Her voice was trembling, already on the verge of sobs. But why?
I’m so sorry. Gilbert’s chest tightened painfully. He felt he’d failed her completely.
Daddy broke his promise. From now on, you have to listen to Mommy, okay? When Daddy has time, he’ll come visit you. Is that alright?
Jenna’s lips quivered. She didn’t answer. Tears spilled over and she suddenly shouted, No!
Jenna? Gilbert froze.
No! No! Jenna wailed, her voice breaking, anger and heartbreak mixing together. You said you’d marry Mommy! You promised we’d always be a family! You lied! Her words dissolved into sobs, her little body shaking.
Daddy doesn’t want Mommy anymore! I don’t want Daddy anymore either! I don’t like you, Daddy!
Jenna! Gilbert’s heart ached as he reached for her.
But Jenna jerked away, refusing his embrace, and ran straight to Sherilyn.
Mommy! Mommy! she cried, throwing herself into her mother’s arms.
Sherilyn’s eyes shone with unshed tears as she wrapped Jenna close, her own heart breaking for her daughter’s pain.
Mommy… w-w-wah… Jenna sobbed uncontrollably in her mother’s arms. Bad Daddy! I never want to see him again!
Sherilyn’s voice caught in her throat. She had no idea how to comfort her little girl.
She looked up at Gilbert, her expression torn, full of helpless sorrow. He had told her not to worry, that he’d explain things to Jenna himself…
So this was his explanation.
But what else could he have said?
The wedding was off. They were et
going their separate ways. One of
them had to be the reason—and he’d chosen to be the one to bear it.
Jenna… Gilbert’s heart felt like it was being stabbed, but he couldn’t say anything more.
Leave me alone! Jenna hiccupped, burrowing deeper into her mother’s embrace, her back turned to him.
Gilbert’s voice was barely a whisper Then… Daddy will go now, okay? He stood there, waiting, but the small figure in Sherilyn’s arms didn’t turn, didn’t say a word.
His heart shattered. He forced himself to his feet, glancing at Sherilyn with a strained smile. He spoke quietly, I’m leaving. Please… try to calm her down. Sherilyn nodded slowly, tears clinging to her lashes.
And you, Gilbert added softly, Take care of yourself. Focus on getting better. Live well.
Sherilyn’s breath caught. She nodded, her voice barely audible. I will.
Gilbert’s gaze lingered one last time on the little girl curled in her
mother’s arms, love and regretel.ne
etched deep in his eyes. Jenna… Daddy’s leaving now.
He turned abruptly and strode out of the room, not daring to look back-not daring
to pause, afraid he’d lose his resolve.
Behind him came Jenna’s heartbreaking cries, loud and raw.
Sherilyn whispered, trying to soothe her, Don’t cry, darling. Mommy’s here, okay?
Mommy… mommy… wahhh…
Gilbert paused at the door, holding his breath, whispering to himself, Jenna, Daddy loves you… always. You and Mommy both.
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