He looked at Eloise with earnestness in his eyes. “Launching my own business was the most daunting thing I’ve ever done. I can’t tell you how relieved I was when it succeeded. Knowing that I could provide for our family was everything to me. No matter how tough my day was, coming home to you and your mom was the highlight. Eloise, you and your mom are the most important things in my life. I’m here, asking for a chance to make things right.”
As Eloise took in her father’s words, she began to understand the reasons behind his strictness over the years. The revelation of his fears and struggles shed light on the protective shell he had built around her. Though still upset about how he had treated Kevin, she didn’t want to add to his distress. Taking her father’s hand, she expressed her feelings, “Dad, you’ve always been my hero. I love you. I’m disappointed by what happened, but I’m willing to forgive you.”