Emma's eyes brimmed with tears as she gazed at the bewildered Regina, at a loss for words herself. Francis had always been a man of clarity, but when it came to matters of the heart, he was hopelessly lost.
No matter how much he doted on Imogen, his second wife, it was no reason to put a stepdaughter on a pedestal, especially when he had a daughter of his own blood. Regina was his only biological child; she and her father were the true continuation of the Tanner family lineage. Yet, everything in the Tanner household seemed topsy-turvy now.
Emma's heart ached for Regina, and she couldn't bring herself to voice such harsh truths.
Instead, she offered solace, "Sweetie, why wouldn't your dad love you? Men are not always great with words, but deep down, he adores you, his daughter. Besides, you're the lady of the Tanner family. He's got only you, darling. One day, all of this will be yours. Regina, your father might be a bit confused at the moment, but you have to believe that he truly loves you."
"Really?" Regina's eyes searched for hope.
"Of course, it's true. When have I ever lied to you?"
Comforted by Emma's reassurance, Regina's emotions began to settle. Just as she turned to leave, a shrill voice pierced from within the room, Madeline's pitch rising in frustration, "Didn't I tell you I have my reasons? Why do you keep asking?"
"Keep it down, will you?" Imogen hissed, pulling her agitated daughter back to the couch with a thud.
Regina waved Emma off, "Don't worry. I won't do anything rash. You go on back."
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