Allison took a hesitant step toward her father, tears streaming down her face, swearing she had no idea. Bill stopped her gently, explaining that he had kept her in the dark on purpose to protect her from the bitterness. His goal was to give her a normal life—school, dreams, and love—leaving the reckoning with Leonard to the law.
Looking around the silent ballroom, Bill apologized to the guests for ruining the party. He said the newlyweds needed to know exactly what foundation this family’s wealth was built upon. Putting on his old cap, Bill stood tall and walked toward the exit.
Before leaving, he looked back at his daughter one last time, told her he loved her, and said the choice of what to do next was hers. Then he disappeared into the night. The wedding was over. Guests began to leave quickly, avoiding eye contact with the family at the head table.
Eleanor was in the back room in tears, while Leonard was frantically dialing his lawyer. A devastated Mike approached his new wife and asked if she had really known nothing. When she shook her head, he asked what would happen to them now.
Allison looked at him with a heavy, sad gaze, admitting she didn’t see a way forward. Only now did she understand why her father spent so many hours sitting in front of her mother’s portrait. He wasn’t just grieving; he was waiting for justice…
