Chapter 899: Chapter 899



From under the table, Wade retrieved an old photo. Ryland gazed at the face of a woman he didn’t recognize.

“This is your mother, Katie Miller. She left you at an orphanage right after your birth. I was the one who brought you back.”

Disturbed by this revelation, Ryland said, “I don’t remember her at all. Dad, the family I saw at the ranch… they must be related to me somehow!”

“A family of four?” Wade pretended to ponder. “Ah, that must be your mother’s cousin, Adrian Miller, and his family.” Ryland found Wade’s response unconvincing.

“My mother’s cousin and his family?” Wade affirmed with a nod.

“Are they looking for me, then?”

Setting his fork down, Wade warned, “Ryland, there are things better left unknown. Just remember, no one besides me in this world deserves your trust. I’d spare you the harsh realities.”

As he finished, Wade suggested a pause. “We’re nearly out of wine. I’ll fetch another bottle.”

Ryland retorted, “Dad, remember, I’m not a little boy anymore. I’m thirteen.”

Bowing his head, he hid the chill in his gaze. “Tell me. I’m ready for it.”

Gripping the empty wine bottle tightly, Wade posed a question. “Do you really want to know?”

As Ryland lifted his gaze, Wade saw a haunting resemblance to someone long gone.

“Absolutely.”

Each time Wade gazed upon Ryland’s face, denial was impossible.

Wade said, “Come with me.”

They walked to a solemn place, a space dedicated to a single individual. Wade had taught Ryland to recite the name on the plaque as soon as he could talk: Chris Potter.

“This is my brother, Chris.”

“I’m aware.”

Wade lit three candles. Chris did the same.

“Years ago, Adrian and his wife took you from me to help a friend in need. You were coveted for your rare blood type, seen as a potential lifelong donor. Chris struggled fiercely to reclaim you.”

“Did Uncle Chris meet his end at their hands?” Ryland’s hands balled into fists.

Wade’s response was silent; his eyes closed in profound grief as he sank to the floor. This was a silent admission.

“They never loved you! Your mother left you at birth, and Adrian saw your life as mere currency for his friend’s survival.”

Tears welled up in Ryland’s eyes as he grappled with the harsh truth. “If that’s so, why are they seeking me out now?”

“I can’t say for sure,” Wade admitted, his smile tinged with sadness. “Perhaps their conscience finally stirred.”

Ryland’s gaze remained fixed on the memorial plaque for Chris.

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