Robert, your father, stood before him, his gaze cold and distant. His defenses were strong, built upon a foundation of past pain and lingering trust issues.

Roderick's gaze was filled with desperation, his voice trembling as he pleaded, ”Please, sir. I know you're worried about her, and I understand your fears. But I swear on every grain of sand on this earth, I would rather die than hurt her.”

Robert's face was etched with pain and worry as he continued, ”I don't know you, not enough to trust you with my daughter's heart. You might break her heart just like that no-good Calion did.”

Roderick's eyes were filled with heartbreak, his voice cracking as he protested, ”I'm not him.”

He looked at your father, begging for understanding. ”I swear. I'm not.”

Robert's face remained cold and stoic. ”How can I know that?” he asked, the skepticism in his voice clear. ”You might seem sincere now, but who's to say you won't change later?”

Roderick's frustration and pain were evident on his face. ”You're asking me to prove something that hasn't happened yet.”

He clenched his fists, attempting to reign in his emotions. ”I know love isn't easy. I know it has its ups and downs, but that doesn't mean I don't take it seriously.”

As tears streamed down his face, Roderick looked your father in the eye, his heart on his sleeve. ”Please, sir. Give me a chance. Let me show you I'm different.”

Robert's eyes, which were shadowed by memories of your heartache in the past, displayed a firm but understanding look. “What proof can you give me that your love for my daughter is different?”

Roderick swallowed hard, his mind racing. Suddenly, an idea flashed in his eyes, inspired by a desperate need to prove his devotion.

He took a deep breath, steeling his resolve. ”Let me take a blood oath,” he declared, his voice firm despite the tears still clinging to his lashes. It was a statement filled with determination, a sacrifice he was willing to make for the woman he loved.