“When my dad's business hit a rough patch, the weight of his debts was like a dark cloud hanging over him. So, naturally, I wanted to ease his burden.”
"You're an only child, right?" Emmett's gaze never left Leah, watching her every move with keen interest.
"Yeah, but the business was Grandpa's life's work, and Dad's the dutiful type. He just wanted to protect what Grandpa built. I never imagined he'd end up with twins, so I thought about keeping just one of them. I'm sorry. If you hold any resentment, it should be directed at me. Elio and my father had nothing to do with it. It was all my choice."
"I never said I was going to hold you accountable for anything." Emmett’s lips curved into a playful smirk. "Do you think you'd still be here if I wanted to pursue it?"
Leah felt a stiffness take over her body, suddenly unsure of how to respond.
It was hard to guess what Emmett was probing for.
"Don't be so tense. I'm not out to get you! Just a bit curious, that's all. I heard the kids have taken quite a shine to you?"
She nodded, "Yeah, ever since they opened their eyes, they've been pestering me to play with them."
After saying that, she ventured further, "I'm sorry if I overstepped, but the thought of them just studying all the time seemed too harsh. I figured they'd be better off enjoying a few more years of carefree childhood through play. If you're looking for someone to blame, blame me, not the kids!"
"Why would I blame you? I actually agree with your philosophy. If the kids like you, then by all means, spend time with them. It's good for them."
"Really? I thought you'd be mad..."
Emmett was serious now, "Of course not. They're not just your children; they're mine too. Now that I've let you into our home, I'm certainly not going to throw you out over something like this."
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