Theodore saw the car, freezing, a daze washing over him. Charlie emerged, hand raised as if to strike, then sneered, turning away. "He's nothing. Waste of energy."

Theodore, braced for a blow, felt a hollow ache. So Rebecca, the whole Carter family… they don’t even bother to be angry?

He chased after Charlie. "Charlie!"

Charlie stopped, turning. Theodore stammered, "Rebecca… Stacey… is she… in love with Hayden?"

Charlie’s initial displeasure morphed into laughter. "Yeah, Becky’s in love with Hayden. They’re great. Theodore, stay away from Becky if you have any self-respect. She’ll never love you again." He looked at Theodore with pity.

Theodore remained silent. Charlie shook his head and started toward the house.

"Can I see Lillian and Kevin?" Theodore called urgently.

Charlie whirled around, cold. "Don't even think about it, or you'll regret it."

Theodore’s heart ached, yet the thought of Lillian and Kevin, his children, brought a fragile joy. "I won't disturb her. Just the kids," he pleaded.

Charlie bristled, but another car arrived. Adrian, Patrick, and Bryce stared at Theodore, his heart pounding. Patrick spoke, calm but firm, "Let's talk inside."

"Dad!" Charlie protested, incredulous.

Stunned, then elated, Theodore thought, Maybe… I can still see the kids…

Patrick led Theodore into the mansion. Charlie shadowed him, watchful. Patrick had the butler serve Theodore coffee.

Once Theodore finished, Patrick said, “You know why you’re not in prison?”

Theodore froze. Patrick continued, unhurried, "Calm down. I didn't pursue this before, but if you bother Becky again, I’ll send the evidence to the authorities.”

Theodore paled, hands trembling. "Do you have to be so cruel?"

Patrick chuckled. "Did anyone tell you how cruel you were to Becky when she had no one?"

Theodore’s eyes filled with tears.

"Dad… I was young, impulsive. I was wrong. Please give me a chance… I won't bother Becky and Hayden. I just want to see the kids… raise them. I'm still their father." His voice cracked with anxiety.

Debra descended the stairs. "Father? You remember you're Lily and Kev's father? Where were you when Becky gave birth? When she cared for them? When you married Jenny? Did you ever think how she might hurt them?" Her voice dripped with sarcasm.

Theodore’s face darkened. He wanted to explain, but the words wouldn't come. It was my fault, all my fault…

"I'll change. I'll take care of them," he pleaded.

Debra’s scowl deepened. "If you truly care, leave them alone. Hayden’s a good man. Becky’s happy.”

"It’s because they’re married that…" Theodore began anxiously.