Chapter 391 He's Not That Despicable...
Antonio paused for a moment. "What are you saying? You're my son, how could I possibly allow you to be in danger?"
Brian felt conflicted. He had never acknowledged Antonio as his father, despite the biological connection. Deep down, he had never truly accepted him. Therefore, Antonio had no need to risk his life.
Brian's stance was clear; he didn't regard Antonio as his father, so he didn't expect Antonio to see him as his son either.
Antonio observed Brian's conflicted expression and understood it well. He had always sensed his son's reluctance to accept him. He didn't blame the child; he recognized it was his own fault.
His children had yet to forgive him, which he acknowledged as his own failing. Nevertheless, he held onto the hope that one day, his son would indeed accept him.
"Ethan, you don't need to bear such a heavy burden," Antonio said, pulling "Ethan" into his embrace, his large hands encompassing the small body.
"I will protect you and Harper. It is my responsibility as your father to care for and protect both of you.
"As I fulfill my duties, it is the happiest moment of my life.
"To be able to hold Sarah's hand and have both of you as my children, these were things I never dared to imagine before."
Antonio's eyes welled up with a tinge of bitterness. "I know my past mistakes justify your lack of forgiveness.
"I have missed so much during your years of growth. It's impossible for me to gain all of your love just by coming back.
"However, I promise you, my children, that I will do everything in my power to make up for my shortcomings and let you truly feel a father's love.
"I will never allow my children to be bullied by other kids, nor will I let the woman I love face the storms alone."
This was the first time Brian had heard Antonio speak like this. If it were before, he would have thought this man was just good at talking, incredibly fake.
But tonight's events made him unable to remain impassive. After all, who would not think of protecting their loved ones first instead of escaping in the face of such a crisis?
Antonio had achieved it. Not only did he accomplish the task, but he also adeptly resolved the disaster, ensuring his mother's safety without harm, despite suffering burns and injuries himself.
Brian could feel Antonio's sincerity, allowing him to understand and view Antonio from a different perspective for the first time.
Perhaps, he might not be as despicable as he had imagined.
Brian had previously found it hard to understand why Sarah would fall for a man like Antonio.
But today, it seemed like he understood.
'Isn't responsibility the most important quality of a man?'
Antonio took it upon himself to protect them, regardless of how many disapproving looks and unfair treatment he faced, always being kind to them.
'Isn't this the kind of father I've always wanted and liked?'
Brian was startled by this thought that came to him and pushed Antonio's hand away. "Thank you for today. Get some rest now, goodnight."
After saying that, Brian hurriedly ran back to his room.
Antonio didn't chase after him. He rubbed his slightly throbbing temples, stood up, and walked out of the bathroom.
Children also needed some time to process things, and he wasn't in a rush.
Sitting in the living room, Sarah smiled seeing Antonio return and asked, "All settled?"
She naturally understood that Antonio had headed to the bathroom to comfort the child's heart.
Antonio nodded. "Have they all eaten?"
"We ordered takeout. Harper and the others have already finished eating, don't worry."
"That's good. It's getting late, let's go to bed early."
After all the hustle and bustle, it was already 10:30 p.m.
Sarah was also a bit tired. If it weren't for waiting for Antonio there, she would have gone to rest earlier.
"Well, goodnight." Sarah stretched lazily and walked towards her room.
Antonio followed closely behind, but when he reached the door, he was mercilessly stopped outside.
"You go to your own room."
"Sarah, I'm injured."
Antonio knocked on the door unwillingly, thinking that tonight he would be able to share a room with Sarah.
"Because you're injured, that's exactly why we can't stay together."
Sarah leaned against the door, unable to suppress the softening of her expression.
"Then when I'm healed, let me in?"
Sarah pursed her lips. "When you're healed, you should sleep on your own. Goodnight."
Saying that, Sarah turned off the light.
Antonio quietly watched the fading light through the gap and let out a deep sigh.
'Reconciliation is still not successful. I need to work harder…'
"Well, get some rest. I'm going to sleep. If you need anything, make sure to call me. My phone is not turned off."
Antonio gave a few more instructions to the door.
"Got it, goodnight."
Antonio reluctantly returned to yesterday's room and lay down on the bed, feeling a bit sulky.
The mattress was just as comfortable as last night, and before he knew it, he fell asleep lying on the bed.
Late at night, Brian quietly opened Antonio's door again.
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