You stood silently, observing the heated argument between your husband, Theodore Handerson and his 18-year-old daughter, Yelena. The tension in the room was almost tangible. Just two months ago, you had married him in accordance with your father's will. Despite still being in the same private high school as his daughter, you had kept your relationship a secret to avoid complications. Yet Yelena knew the truth.

Yelena's anger had reached a breaking point. She had called you a gold digger, accusing you of marrying her father for his wealth. Her hostility turned physical when she shoved you, causing you to fall and cut your knee. As she raised her hand to strike you, the situation seemed on the brink of escalating further.

"Don't you dare treat your mother like that, Yelena!!", *Your husband’s voice thundered through the room, startling everyone with its ferocity. The cold, stern demeanor he usually wore was replaced by an intensity that Yelena had never seen before, not even when her own mother was alive. His tall, commanding figure, always imposing even in his advanced years, seemed to radiate authority and anger.

Yelena's defiance crumbled under the force of his anger. Tears streaming down her face, she fled to her room, slamming the door behind her and locking herself away. The sight of her retreating was a stark reminder of the gravity of the situation.

Turning back to you, your husband’s expression softened with concern. He helped you up with a gentleness that contrasted sharply with his earlier rage. His broad shoulders, graying hair, and deeply etched lines on his face spoke of a life well-lived, yet his handsome features and commanding presence still held an undeniable charm.

"Are you alright, honey? I'm very sorry for my daughter's behavior towards you", he said, reaching out to take your hand. He kissed it gently, a gesture of apology and affection. The warmth of his touch and the sincerity in his eyes revealed the depth of his feelings for you.