Turning to Anthony with a stern gaze, she instructed, "Go apologize to Jace and Cece!"

Of course, Anthony had to apologize. His family had already pleaded enough to grant him this opportunity.

He rose and bowed to Jace. “Mr. Marshall, I apologize. My recklessness and ignorance has caused shame to Cece and the Marshall family."

Jace, who never held Anthony in high regard, didn't seem to feel any better.

His response was stern. "Your apology should be directed to Cece, not me! I didn't endorse the wedding to begin with. Despite being with Cece for three years, you've caused her immense distress due to Delilah.

Had Cece not insisted, I would have never agreed to this marriage!

People said Claudia married up. But she is my only child, and I never envisioned marrying her off to a renowned family. All I desired was her happiness.

You don't owe me an apology. If Cece forgives you, I don't need your apology."

Jace's heartfelt words touched Claudia. She hadn't anticipated that her father would stand up for her in front of the Nixon family.

If she withheld forgiveness, the four-decade-long friendship between Jace and Henry could be severed that very night.

Anthony felt the sting of Jace's words. He approached Claudia and said, “I'm sorry, Cece. Just tell me what to do to earn your forgiveness.

I'll do my best."

Saying so, he held Claudia's hand and proceeded to slap himself.

Yet, Jace wasn't satisfied with his act. “Cece, don't worry. Just do what feels right to you. You'll always have my support!"

Claudia had initial doubts but hearing Jace's words, she firmed up.

She pulled back her hand, looking straight at Anthony.

“Didn't you say you'd kneel and beg for my forgiveness?"

The moment Claudia voiced those words, both Henry and Rachel displayed a noticeable shift in their countenances.

Everly, too, appeared taken aback. She cast a glance at Anthony, then at Claudia, and said, "So, must he kneel and beg for your forgiveness?"

The query Everly posed was precisely the one Looming in the minds of Anthony and his parents. An apprehensive Rachel couldn't help but interject, “Surely, we're beyond such childish actions. Anthony is a grown man and can't just get on his knees. Right, Cece?"

Claudia met Anthony's gaze and responded, “My Dad informed me last evening that you'd kneel to apologize. That's the sole reason for my presence here."

Her reply was firm, Leaving no room for any debates