Chapter 6 - Grandpa Finally Knows Their Names
The children had been taken to the library with my deputy, Lena, while adults spoke.
I refused to let them stand inside an investigation.
Later, William asked if he could meet them properly.
I did not answer immediately.
The children were not evidence.
They were not punishment.
They were not a Christmas reveal designed for adults.
I asked them.
Sophia wanted to.
Ethan was unsure.
Olivia held my hand.
Noah asked:
“Is Grandpa nice?”
“I don’t know yet.”
That was honest.
William entered the library without medals, speeches, or military posture.
He knelt awkwardly.
“I’m William.”
Noah said:
“I know. Mom told us.”
William’s eyes filled.
He asked each child’s name.
Noah.
Ethan.
Sophia.
Olivia.
He repeated them carefully.
Then he apologized.
Not for Daniel.
For himself.
“I should have known enough about my own family to know you existed.”
Ethan asked:
“Did Grandma know?”
May you like
William looked toward the doorway.
“I’m afraid we’re still finding that out.”
