Chapter 5 - Five Names on the Family TreeThe Colonel's attorney arrived twenty minutes later.
He walked through the doors carrying a leather briefcase.
“Mr. Whitfield.”
Marcus looked at him.
“Why are you here?”
The attorney glanced at me.
Then at the children.
“Because Colonel Whitfield instructed me to deliver the final documents when all five grandchildren were together.”
Marcus went silent.
The attorney opened his briefcase.
Five certificates.
Five trust agreements.
Five photographs.
And one final letter.
Marcus took it.
His hands were shaking.
He began reading.
I watched his eyes move.
Then tears appeared.
He whispered:
“Dad knew.”
“Yes.”
“He knew everything.”
“Yes.”
“Why didn't he tell me?”
I answered:
“Because he knew you'd make it about yourself.”
Marcus looked at me.
The attorney lowered his eyes.
The letter contained one final instruction.
Marcus, if you're reading this, understand something. You didn't lose your children. You abandoned them before they had the chance to know you.
Marcus broke down.
For once, nobody comforted him.
The attorney continued.
“The children each have an education trust.”
Marcus looked up.
“How much?”
“That is private.”
“I'm their father.”
The attorney's voice remained calm.
“You were their biological father.”
The distinction hit him hard.
“Their mother raised them.”
Marcus looked at me.
“What do I have to do?”
I answered honestly.
“Nothing.”
He looked confused.
“Nothing?”
“You don't have to pretend now.”
May you like
“I want to know them.”
“Then earn it.”
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