Trapped in the Love of Stepchildren
Chapter 24's

“Then, when I was a kid, I never thought that my life would change in such a way" Daniel said in a hoarse voice. "I always felt that I was living in a happy family. But everything changed when I found out about the truth from my family even when Tom, my real father died in that car accident."

Emilia looked at Daniel sympathetically, holding Daniel's hand gently. "I know how heavy all the things you feel now, Daniel.”

Daniel sighed deeply before continuing, "After hearing about the passing of my biological father, I was confused. I just wanted to come to her funeral and forget about it, but that's when I saw Laura. I saw her sadness that would live alone after the departure of her husband, made my little heart moved to help her and our relationship continued until we felt comfortable and wanted a more.” relationship

Emilia heard it carefully. “Are you sure about this relationship? This is a relationship that most people will probably consider to be an unethical relationship.”

Daniel cried, confusion and frustration haunted his face. "I know, Emilia. I never expected this to happen either. But that love just came, without excuse. I tried to fight that feeling, I tried to stay away, but the stronger it grew in my heart."

Emilia felt mixed. He tried to digest everything he had just heard. "And what happened after that? Does Laura feel the same way?"

Daniel shook his head while wiping away the tears flowing down his cheeks. "Laura, she's trying to deny her feelings, Emilia. But I saw her unease, an expression that hinted at the same love. We feel trapped in this feeling, trapped in a forbidden love that we can't control."

Emilia felt at a loss for words. He tried to understand the situation, but it felt so complicated and confusing. "And what happens next?"

Daniel took a deep breath, trying to ease the tension that was haunting him. "When people started suspecting our relationship, the trial began. I was accused of seducing Laura, destroying my father's family name. They slandered us, Emilia. They don't understand that this isn't something we can control."

Emilia felt increasingly heavy hearing it. "And how's the trial going?"

Daniel sighed deeply, his eyes looking tired. "The trial went badly, Emilia. All the evidence and testimony against me is devastating. I was laid off from my job, colleagues and friends turned their faces away, accusing me of being irresponsible."

Emilia felt angry and upset over this injustice. "But, Daniel, can't we prove that your love is not a crime? Isn't there a way to fix this?"

Daniel looked at Emilia with an expression of despair. "I've tried, Emilia. I've been looking for a way to prove that our love is not wrong, but there seems to be no hope anymore. Everyone has already decided that I am a bad man.”

Emilia tried to hold Daniel's hand tightly. "Daniel, even though everyone doesn't understand, I'm here for you. I know that you're not a bad guy. We have to find a way out of this situation, together."

Emilia still saw Daniel grieving. His heart was broken to see the fragile state of Daniel.

Emilia hugged Daniel tightly. "Daniel, I know this is very difficult for you. I know how frustrating you are and all the burdens you are carrying right now. But remember that you are not alone. I'm here for you, and we're gonna get through this together."

Daniel wept on Emilia's shoulder, letting all her tears spill. "I feel so devastated, Emilia. I felt like everything was collapsing in front of me. I lost my father, lost my job, and now my life is filled with scandal and accusations."

Emilia stroked Daniel's back gently. "Sadness and despair are natural feelings in situations like this. You don't have to endure all that pain alone. Let me help you lift your load."

Emilia looked at Daniel sincerely. "Daniel, guilt is natural, but you must not let it destroy you. Everyone makes mistakes in life, and the most important thing is how we learn from them and turn into better people. We all deserve a second chance."

Daniel looked at Emilia with a mixed look. "But do we deserve a second chance? Do we deserve happiness after everything we've done?"

Emilia smiled gently. "Daniel, we're all human. We all make mistakes. But, we can also learn, grow, and improve. We deserve happiness, as long as we are willing to correct our mistakes and fight for them well."

Daniel took a deep breath. "But what about everything that others say about us? What about the trial and our ruined reputation?"

Emilia held Daniel's hand tightly. "Daniel, we cannot control what others think or say about us. They may not fully understand our situation or have no empathy. What matters is how we see ourselves. If we know in our hearts that we are trying to get better, then that's what we should care about."

Daniel looked at Emilia expectantly. "Do you really believe that we can get through this and find happiness in the middle of all this?"

Emilia smiled with confidence. "Yes, Daniel. I trust. I believe in you and in the power of your love. Together, you will find a way out and build a better future. You will face this challenge with courage and determination." They hugged each other, feeling comfortable.

—

Daniel stared at the photo of Laura on his phone with a look of love, worry, and confusion. She wanted to open her heart and share all the burdens she felt, but she was also afraid of the possible impact on their relationship.

Suddenly her phone rang and displayed Laura's name on her screen. With a little nervous Daniel raised the call.

“Halo,” says Daniel.

“Daniel, are you okay?” Ask Laura softly.

Hearing Laura's question made Daniel pause for a moment, he knew that now he was not okay, but he did not want to make Laura feel burdened with the problem now.

“I'm fine, Laura.” Daniel lies, and he has to lie to Laura.

There was a rough gasp of Laura's breath on Daniel's phone.

“Daniel, I know you're not okay. I know how your last trial was and about your work,” Laura said hoarsely trying to hold back tears.