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"Well, isn’t it rather obvious?" I inquired back. "Who else would know that my father keeps a fake certificate in his desk, or know of my suicide attempt and assume the worse? In fact, how would they be able to get all the right news reporters here, change the previously selected tabloids for today and get them updated to cover my suicide that wasn't even reported to the authorities, or have knowledge of my father's apparent death?"
"Apparent?" another reporter questioned my statement.
"Well, I say apparent, because if a true body was discovered, would this place be open for a business deal?" My statement left them questioning everything spread through the news this morning, but I noticed the crowd beginning to spread out, revealing the individual standing at the bottom step with Viktor at their side.
My eyes widened as the shock of the sight made me realize Onyx was now standing at my side with my suit coat, while the new arrival, who began to walk up the stairs with Viktor at their left side, was truly Roberto De Luca.
Papa Dearest.
Nothing else moved - or breathed, for that matter. The world was watching and listening to every step my father took up the stairs until he stood before me.
I wasn't expecting him to be here, and the sight of him made a lump form in my throat as his eyes locked onto mine. I braced for some sort of disappointment, for him to portray his disgust as he'd done plenty of times in the past, but instead I saw immense honor while a slight smile formed on his lips as he looked me up and down.
He reached out to gently place a hand on my left cheek, and I fought the urge to flinch at the move, while my heart was clearly trying to give me a heart attack from this man who surely couldn't be my father.
Papa Dearest only showed affection when I was on the verge of death. I was here, alive and somewhat well, in front of the public eye that was all watching this transpire.
Every move he made now would cling to his reputation for the rest of his existence, and yet here he was, showing a glimpse of affection.
"I'm proud of you, Willow," he whispered, but I was sure many heard his words. As much as I'd like to conclude that I was definitely hallucinating, I couldn't deny that I caught onto his statement loud and clear.
He turned around to face the crowd then, his stance purposely blocking me as he stood a bit taller and projected a calm demeanor that would convenience anyone that he was trying to be an amazing father and protect me.
Maybe he was trying to protect me from what I couldn't see in this grand moment.
He didn't wait for the stunned individuals to encourage him to speak the truth.
"It was prematurely announced that I had suffered multiple gunshot wounds due to the crossfire that took place around three in the morning here at my enterprise. Yes, I was indeed in the middle of the crossfire, but thanks to my security and the resources Mr. Moore offered last minute due to the potential concern for my safety, I was transferred over to a safe house until it was deemed safe to return," he elaborated. "It also came to my attention that fraudulent activity was happening on these very steps that I built for my legacy, resulting in my only child revealing something that we've kept private out of respect."
He paused on purpose, as if to make the crowd feel a sense of guilt that it had come to this point of forcing me to reveal the truth due to another's selfishness.
"I'll be the first to say yes, William is indeed Willow, the woman who I stand protectively for. My son during the day...and daughter during the night, has lived a double life for the sake of making me proud," he revealed. "I'll also be the first to say that I didn't originally support my child and this transition. Though it wasn't a circumstance they deserved, I originally disliked the idea that my William was only a male for half the day. My judgment caused me to act out poorly as a father, and though you are witnessing Willow De Luca for the first time in the official public light, let me tell you that she's grown to be a powerful woman in the background."
What...is he doing?
"I'm well aware that in the event of my death, all my assets would be changed over to William De Luca, and as of midnight, it was confirmed that he would carry my legacy. However, I've updated that agreement as of noon, which was a minute ago."
I had to fight the urge to let my jaw drop as I sensed the pack's shock. Even Viktor seemed a bit taken aback by Roberto's words, and we all waited in anticipation for what he was going to say.
"When I was born, I was taught that women are weak. That they couldn't carry themselves in this harsh world, and passing responsibilities down to them would be a waste of one's struggles," he disclosed. "That mindset was changed by raising my child. During the days, I got to see a hard-working boy, who grew up to be a man worthy of taking over my empire and all the success he built on his own. However, what always left me speechless was witnessing the hard work that Willow would put in at night. During the time when many slept and recovered from the day, Willow would continue to learn, train, and widen her accomplishments and knowledge. She'd work towards a level of endurance where nothing could bring her down, and till this day, the only thing that could end her...was herself."
A tear spilled down my face, and Onyx's hand swiped it away before he reached for my hand and held it gently. No one would see thanks to Roberto and Viktor standing before us, and it was the support I needed to keep it together, because Roberto's words were something I'd been waiting to hear my entire life.
"With that being said, I approved of William's resignation because I wanted the world to see my child. To see both sides of my child, who I'm immensely proud of. To acknowledge that William and Willow are the same," he emphasized. "Now that it has been officially announced by Willow herself, I can officially announce that I, Roberto De Luca, am stepping down from my position as CEO, and have appointed my child, who in this moment in time is Willow De Luca, as the official CEO of my enterprise and my empire."
I was speechless, like everyone else, but he had more to say.
"Due to this being a big transition in power, I will still be in a vice president position to aid my child through this big shift. I also ask that those who support William De Luca support Willow De Luca, for they are the same individual and carry the same passion, drive, and determination to implement a fresh coat of change in the realms of finance, fashion, and mental health awareness." He looked through the crowd as he continued. "I made a mistake by not verbally declaring how amazed I am by Willow's perseverance to aid me in my work, even though it was taking a toll on her desire to live amongst the shadows. I want to change that, and that is what prompts this rather drastic decision. Please know that those in collaboration with our businesses are aware of the coming change and humbly support this transition. I ask the public to do the same, so that my child realizes that gender does not determine your worth in this world. It's your actions, perseverance, and ability to tackle life’s challenges that allows your light to shine and change the lives of many, whether it's by the kindness you show, the determination you project to inspire others, or the reputation you allow to be seen while modeling success."
No one could say anything as he half bowed before the crowd.
"I am no way near perfect, but I can stand here and vouch for my child. I thank you regardless of your decision."
My tears fell before I could try to stop them, but what really hit my emotional strings was the onslaught of applause that broke out through the crowd.
"We support you, Willow!"
"William or Willow! We have your back!"
