Chapter 51: ANTHONY DANTE

The sun was setting, casting long shadows over the orphanage, as Emily went about her duties, ensuring everything was running smoothly for the children in her care. It had been a busy day, and her heart swelled with pride at the progress the orphanage had made since its grand opening.

As she made her way back to the main building, Emily spotted a well-dressed man approaching from a distance. His presence seemed oddly out of place amidst the cheerful and bustling atmosphere of the orphanage. She squinted, trying to place where she had seen him before. He carried an air of authority that hinted at his importance.

"Good day, sir," Emily greeted curtly as the man drew nearer. She didn't recognize him, but his demeanor indicated that he was a person of significance.

By her side, Ethan's expression had already turned into a scowl, and his jaw tightened as he watched the stranger's approach. He had an inkling of what was about to transpire and couldn't hide his annoyance at the unexpected visitor.

The man, whom Emily now guessed to be a big shot, regarded her for a moment before speaking. "It's quite the dream you have, young lady, but do you have the power to back it up?" His words carried a tone of skepticism.

Emily's brow furrowed in confusion, struggling to understand his meaning when Ethan's voice cut through the air, tinged with irritation. "Enough of the questions, old man. What do you want?" His patience with the visitor was wearing thin.

The man's lips curled into a wry smile as he continued, seemingly unfazed by Ethan's brusque tone. "You are quite overprotective, brat," he chuckled. "But that is no way to greet your father."

A gasp of realization escaped Emily as she put the pieces together. This man was Ethan's father, Anthony Dante. She had heard stories about him, but this was the first time she had seen him in person.

Ethan's scowl deepened, and he barely contained his anger. "Quit your acting, old man. You and I both know that's not what brought you here."

Mr. Dante seemed to ignore Ethan's words as he went on, "Ah, yes, that reminds me. I came to check on my granddaughter."

Ethan's temper flared, and he growled, "You bastard!" He was on the verge of losing his cool. "I don't want to ever see you near my daughter or my family, got that? Or I will make you pay."

Mr. Dante, seemingly satisfied with the reaction he had provoked, walked away, chuckling softly. "Brat, you better prepare yourself. I'm going to punish you for slapping my wife." With that, he left, leaving a dazed Emily wondering about the turbulent history between father and son.