C23 23

The lady referred to as Ruth on the other end of the call sputters in shock. Even Emily sits straight on the couch to look her father in the face. The words came so easily to his mouth. It was like he felt nothing when he said those words. Richard pauses a while, waiting for a response.

"You have to say something, Ruth. If you will not do it, there many others who would gladly do it for me