Chapter 18: Torn Between Two Worlds

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As Ethan's relationship with Samantha blossomed, the tension with Emma only grew worse. Emma refused to visit, ignoring his calls and messages. When they did speak, it always ended in an argument, with Emma accusing Ethan of being selfish and uncaring.

One evening, after another failed attempt to reach out to Emma, Ethan sat down with Lily to talk about her sister.

"Lily, I know you miss Emma," Ethan said gently. "I miss her too. I've been trying to talk to her, but... she's angry."

Lily nodded, her expression sad. "She blames you for everything. She won't even talk to me about it."

Ethan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I just don't know how to fix it. She won't listen."

"She'll come around eventually," Lily said quietly. "She's just like Mom—stubborn."

Ethan smiled weakly. "Yeah, she is."

They sat in silence for a while, both of them thinking about the rift in their family. Ethan wanted nothing more than to have both his daughters in his life, but Emma had made her choice. And as much as it hurt, he knew he couldn't force her to change her mind.

For now, all he could do was focus on the daughter who was still by his side. And, in time, maybe—just maybe—Emma would see the truth.

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