Chapter 434

In Gideon's mind, the reason he lost Giselle came down to one thing—he was an illegitimate son, someone unworthy of standing beside the likes of Donovan or Zachary, men born into privilege. The weight of that shame and resentment erupted all at once. Ethan listened in silence. His chest ached, and the fight drained out of him. Slumping into the couch, he lit a cigarette, each drag heavy with guilt. He had kept the truth hidden all these years partly for the sake of family stability, partly because he feared Gideon's hatred. After all, this humiliating origin was something he, as Gideon's father, had created. "Gideon," Ethan said at last, exhaling smoke in slow circles. His voice was low, solemn. "No matter what, the fact remains that you're my son. That will never change. In my heart, you've always stood equal to Zach. If I'm honest, you matter even more to me than he does. I failed you, and I failed your mother." He drew another breath. "I don't want to dredge up the past anymore.