“You’re my son.”
Evan took a breath.
“I already have a dad.”
Mark frowned.
“My stepfather raised me.”
Evan continued calmly.
“I came here because I wanted answers about my mother’s past. I got them.”
He paused.
“I don’t know whether I want any kind of relationship beyond that.”
Mark stepped forward slightly.
“Don’t I at least deserve a chance?”
Daniel gently raised a hand.
“Give him some space.”
Mark looked frustrated.
“You always interfere.”
Daniel sighed.
“I should have been more honest with you years ago.”
Mark stared at him.
Daniel continued.
“What happened between you and Claire wasn’t healthy.”
“You don’t get to judge my relationship.”
“I should have spoken up sooner.”
Daniel’s voice stayed calm.
“Controlling someone’s finances, limiting their choices, and making it difficult for them to leave was wrong.”
Mark didn’t answer.
“For almost twenty years,” Daniel continued, “I convinced myself that keeping my distance from you was enough.”
