“Ben… understand, being a parent is not an easy thing and we make mistakes.”
“You think? A father should be able to protect his child no matter what. He shouldn’t say those hurtful things that you did that day.” He sniveled. “But you were just glad your problem was gone and you had your perfect family.” He furiously rubbed his face and leaned on the table, closer to his father. “I have already considered you dead. So, I suggest you go back to your family and forget you had a son called Ben.”
“Please,” Jerome dropped to one knee. “Do not do this. Not a day has passed that I haven’t regretted what I said to you. I have been suffering. You wouldn’t understand the love a parent has for a child but in future you will, Ben. Please…”
“Don’t talk to me about fatherhood.” He slammed his hand against the table, making Jerome abruptly rise. “You have no idea what I have been through or what I have lost. As someone that has already lost a child, I know how it feels to yearn for a child every day, wishing you’d return to that moment and given your life for hers. That’s why a parent who truly loves their child cannot leave them alone or disown them. You never loved me. You only pitied me.”
To say Jerome was surprised would be an understatement.
“What- what are you talking about?” He stuttered, a frown appearing on his face. “A child?”
By the time Ben realized what he had said, it was too late. He had burst out in anger and told Jerome about the child.
“I have nothing to talk to you about anymore. Just go back to your family.” He sniveled. “After what happened, I will never be able to see you in the same way again. As far as I am concerned, both my parents are dead.”
“Ben!”
“Security!” He screamed.
“Ben, please…”
“Security!”
Two muscular guys dressed in black suits came rushing in. “Yes, sir!”
“Please, escort Mr. Hendez out of here.” He commanded and he should never be allowed on these premises again.
“Ben, please…”
“Just leave on your own, Mr. Henandez, otherwise, I am gonna have security throw you out.”
Jerome nodded, slowly rubbing his face. “If that’s what you want. But I will never give up on you, Ben. Daddy still loves you.”
With those words, Jerome left.
When he left, Ben sobbed in silence as he sat at the edge of the seat with his face buried in his hands. He let out a strangled sob, his shoulders shaking as he cried into his hands.
To be continued…