Dad's voice was resolute, "Honesty is the best policy, remember that. They may be young, but they're wise beyond their years. Don't hide anything from them. Lies are the real harm, not the truth. Don't pay the price of countless lies for the sake of one. They need to know where their father went wrong so they can learn from his mistakes and not follow in his misguided footsteps."
"But I'm worried about Monique..." My voice trembled with unease.
"I'll handle it. This is the perfect opportunity to show them their father's transgressions! I'll let them make their own judgment!"
Suddenly, I realized that Dad wasn't just my financial support; he was the bedrock of my life and a mentor to the kids.
"I want to change their last name to Wilburn!" I declared, anger lacing my words, "The name Dawson will only bring them shame!"
"A surname is just that, nothing to fuss over. If it's necessary, or if it's what they want, we should respect their wishes. It's not just respect for them; it's democratic!" Dad dismissed the concern with an air of indifference. I didn't argue. Maybe I was being too radical.
"And... Dad, I forgot to tell you something. Hazel passed away," I broke the news to him.
"Passed away? When did this happen? How so suddenly?" Dad asked in shock, and Mom hurried over to find out what had happened. I recounted the details to them.
Dad sighed, "She brought it upon herself!"
After a few more words with my mom, she told me that Helga was flying back to Goldenvale Town tomorrow and I agreed to pick her up at the airport.
"I'd love to join Helga on her visit to Goldenvale Town if I didn't have things to take care of," Mom lamented. The truth was, she just couldn't bear to leave Dad's side.
My main concern was their safety. I always worried that Dawson brothers were up to no good.
Mom reassured me cheerfully, "Don't worry! Ronan has arranged a personal assistant for your dad, and we've got a Brenda taking care of the house."
She whispered conspiratorially, "She knows martial arts!"
I perked up, telling Mom, "Well, once Carl gets his shots, I'll bring him back for a longer visit. It'll be just in time for the school year to start, and I'll bring Fidelia back too. I want to make sure I hand her over to her mother personally."
"That sounds good! And Fidelia is such a sweet child, very likable!" Mom praised her.
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