As soon as I heard the knock outside the room, I knew it was Daddy. So, I immediately splashed some cool water on my face, the droplets cascading on my cheeks, when I checked myself in the mirror. Then, I used the towel there and wiped my face.

With a heavy sigh, I leaned against the bathroom counter, before getting out to face my father. I couldn’t let him notice that there was something wrong with me. Therefore, I had to compose myself first. Gathering my resolve, I straightened my posture and wiped away the traces of vulnerability from my face.

I stood before the door, my hand resting on...