Forty

Ellen's POV

It's been more than three hours since Liz's detention. My father paced the room, his frustration palpable. He dialed one number after another, desperately trying to reach someone who could help clear Liz's name.

“Yes, it's a setup. Liz would not do that while she was in training except in self defense. Thank you.” Dad ended the call.

“Dad, why bother denying it?” I interjected, unable to contain my own frustration. “It's so obvious that Liz did it. No one would ever believe us.”

My father's expression hardened, his jaw set with determination. “You deny till the end.” He replied firmly, his voice unwavering. “Deny even when the sword is to your neck. Deny even when you're about to die. Deny.”

I clenched my fists in frustration, feeling a surge of anger and helplessness wash over me. “Damn it.” I cursed under my breath, realizing the gravity of our situation. Denial seemed futile in the face of overwhelming evidence, but my father's words resonated with a stubborn resolve th