Chapter 9 - Thirteen Years Later
A year passed.
Julian was accepted into his dream university.
Miles received a scholarship for engineering.
Preston found his biological father but continued visiting me.
He told me once:
“You're still my dad.”
I cried when he said it.
Not because I believed I deserved it.
Because I knew I didn't.
But he gave it anyway.
Evelyn and I eventually became friends.
Not lovers.
Not husband and wife.
Something different.
Something healthier.
She told me one evening:
“You're finally the man I hoped you'd become.”
I smiled.
“I'm sorry it took thirteen years.”
“So am I.”
We sat quietly.
Then she said:
“Don't waste the next thirteen.”
I promised.
At the annual tournament, Julian and Miles were invited back as honorary mentors.
This time, I sat in the audience.
No VIP table.
No spotlight.
No entourage.
Just a father watching his sons.
When their names were announced, the audience applauded.
Julian walked onto the stage.
Miles followed.
The host smiled.
“Two years ago, these young men changed the history of this competition.”
Julian looked toward me.
Miles smiled.
I stood.
Not because I was their sponsor.
Not because I was wealthy.
Because I was their father.
And this time, they smiled when they saw me.
After the ceremony, Julian hugged me.
Miles joined.
For a few seconds, I couldn't breathe.
I held them both.
“I missed so much.”
Julian whispered:
“You're here now.”
I closed my eyes.
May you like
“Yes.”
“I am.”
