“Lili, what’s going on?” I asked, trying to keep my voice steady despite the storm brewing inside me.

She hesitated, glancing at my father. He stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Lili’s shoulder. “Son, there’s something we need to explain,” he began.

Lili took a deep breath and looked me in the eye. “I know this looks bad, but please trust me,” she pleaded. “It’s not what you think.”