Ruined?

Ruined Presentation 

Carissa restrained her emotions, biting her lip as she struggled to find the right words to console Angelina. The truth about her father, David, was a sensitive and painful topic.

How can she explain this complicated and strained relationship of hers and David who happened to be Angelina's biological father? It was a mess to her. 

"Honey." Carissa held her daughter's face in her hands. "Don't let those bullies get to you," she continued, "I'll go to your school and make sure they know not to mess with you. You may not have a father in your life, but you have a strong mother who is like a father to you."

Angelina only gave a half-smile in return. "Mom, does that mean I don't have a father?"

Carissa sighed, shaking her head. "You do have a father, and maybe one day you'll see him."

"So I'm not a bastard or fatherless?" Angelina's excitement was palpable.