Aurelia choked back a wave of emotion. "After you acknowledge Leopold, you can still be Arnold’s boy, and he will love you just the same."
William said, "Have you ever thought if everyone learns about my origins, they won't just blame you, but blame dad too. The Stirling family will feel like you two have deceived them, and Uncle Leopold will think the same. You might think it's okay, but dad will be mortified."
Aurelia fell silent, realizing that her son, though young, was incredibly thoughtful and considerate.
"William, mommy understands your worries, but some things can't be outrun. Eventually, we have to face them. Take a brave step forward, and things might turn out completely different from what you imagine."
William looked at her earnestly. "Mommy, do you know why dad often goes abroad? It's because he's heartbroken over you and Uncle Leopold getting back together. He runs away to lick his wounds. Right now, he really needs me. I can't leave him. If even I abandon him, he won't be able to cope."
Aurelia was at a loss for words. William made a silly face. "Alright, mommy, I'm going to play now. We can talk about this later." He turned and ran off, clearly avoiding the subject.
Aurelia felt a touch of helplessness. In truth, Leopold was a good father. He had cared for Kane tenderly and raised him well. But William just wouldn't accept him, which gave Aurelia a headache.
Kane sipped his juice, glancing over from a distance. He guessed that mommy was trying to convince William to recognize his dad. Because every time this topic came up, she had that helpless look.
If it were anything else, she would be smiling.
Later, they all headed to the garden pond to feed the fish. Kane walked behind, hand in hand with William.
"William, does Mom want you to acknowledge Dad?" Kane asked.
William scratched his head, mimicking Skyler's tone. "Adults are such a hassle, always flip-flopping. Everything's fine as it is, why change it? I don't like change."
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The CEO's Unplanned Heir