Blessing in Disguise

Chapter 101: Declarations

"That was both rude and uncalled for, Daniel," Seher declared, her anger barely contained. She closed her eyes, took a deep breath to compose herself, and continued, "Firstly, Daniel, I believe one doesn't need to be a biological parent to possess parental instincts. To insinuate that just because Andrei is not a biological father, he wouldn't know how to properly raise a child is disrespectful to every parent who has either adopted children or had them through other means than natural conception."

Though Daniel attempted to defend himself, Seher raised her hand, asserting, "I don't need to justify myself to you. Meher is my daughter, and decisions regarding what's best for her are mine to make. I've wholeheartedly shared that parental right with my boyfriend, with whom I am in a serious relationship and envision a future. A part of that future is my daughter, who is ours because he is my partner. He has equal rights and responsibilities towards Meher, and I trust him completely. I agree that Andrei spoils his daughter, but that's because he can, just like any other father does, including yourself. Parents go above and beyond to provide the best for their children, and so does he."

"As the father - not a mere figure - to Meher, he exercises his right to spoil her while understanding his responsibility to educate her. Even though, given your remarks, you don't deserve an explanation, I'm still offering one because I know you care for her. Yet, after the comment you made during the party and now this, I sincerely hope this will be the last time you insult Andrei. You may be my friend with a special place in my life, but this man is my heart, and I cannot let you insult him."

Daniel was taken aback by Seher's unexpected response. The Seher he knew had always been a sweet, demure woman, fiercely protective of only her daughter and not even herself. The fact that she had stood up for this man she had met just a few months ago was shocking. He realized he had crossed a line with his comment and expected a sharp response from the man himself. However, he didn't anticipate Seher firmly telling him to back off in the most polite way possible.

Acknowledging the truth in her words, Daniel took a moment to calm himself. Turning to Andrei, he admitted, "Mr. Romanov, Seher is right. What I said was rude and uncalled for, and I am very sorry about it. I can see how much you care for Meher, and I don't believe you would do anything to lead her astray."

Then, facing Seher, Daniel continued, "I've been extremely foolish when it comes to you. Can you forgive me this one more time? I promise to do better next time." His sincere apology hung in the air, seeking forgiveness and understanding.

Seher gently shook her head and spoke with a tone of understanding, "You are my friend, Daniel, and I value your presence in my life. But our friendship can only continue if you extend the same respect to my partner as I do to yours. We all have a history, and you're aware of the beginning between Amelia and me. However, I don't let our past affect how I treat her."

Looking directly at Amelia, Seher solemnly said, "I'm sorry, Amelia. I never want to bring up the past. You've been an amazing person lately, and the positive changes in you have earned my respect."

Turning back to Daniel, she continued with sincerity, "If I can let go of the past, be friends with your wife, truly respect her, then can you release your prejudice and respect my partner? He's not just important to me; he's my better half. Daniel, I intend to marry this man, and our friendship can't continue if you don't acknowledge the significance of the person I want to spend my life with." Daniel nodded in understanding, realizing the gravity of Seher's words and the importance of respecting her choices.

Daniel gently placed his hand on top of Seher's and apologized, "I know and I'm very sorry." Seher nodded in acknowledgment, offering him a reassuring smile. She closed her eyes briefly, then shifted her focus to the children, "Who would like some delicious halwa?" The choruses of "Me! Me!" echoed from both children.