Chapter 313

Anthony Taylor's hands trembled slightly. "Sweetheart, are you blaming us?"

Teresa Taylor's tears soaked her collar. "I know I was wrong. I've regretted it every single day. You can hate me, but please don't deny us..."

"My current parents have been wonderful to me." I gripped my water glass. "They sacrificed everything to raise me. I won't let them suffer the pain of losing a daughter in their old age."

Teresa clutched my wrist desperately. "But blood ties can't be severed!"

"Blood matters, but the debt of upbringing matters more."

Silence filled the private dining room.

Teresa suddenly remembered something. "What about Alexander? You two were perfect for each other..."

"We're over." I cut her off. "Some fractures can never be mended."

Anthony slammed his teacdown with force. "Fine! We respect your decision."

Teresa stared at her husband in disbelief.

"But one request," Anthony's voice cracked. "Could we...see you sometimes?"

"I'm leaving for further studies in the UK."

Teresa's glass shattered on the floor.

"When?" Anthony's words shook.

"Next month."

Teresa beat her own thighs in anguish. "These useless legs! I can't even visit my own daughter..."

Anthony knelt beside her, clasping her hands. "I'll carry you onto planes. I'll wheel you around the world. Anywhere you want to go."

Watching this couple past their prime, my chest tightened.

"We can video call." The words escaped before I realized.

Teresa jerked her head up, tears still glistening. "Really?"

"Medical work keeps me busy. It won't be frequent."

Tears turned to tremulous smiles. "Yes, yes! You focus on your career. Just seeing your face would be enough..."

Waiters began serving, covering the table with exquisite dishes.

Anthony's unsteady hands placed food on my plate. "Try this. Your father remembers how much you loved fish as a child..."

"Terry," Teresa ventured timidly, "before you leave...could you come home for one meal?"

Surveying the lavish spread, I gave a small nod.