Chapter 5 - THE DAUGHTER WHO DIDN'T WANT HIS MONEY
Olivia Carter agreed to meet Adrian at a quiet café.
She arrived wearing jeans, a blue sweater, and an expression that reminded Claire of Margaret.
Not because they looked alike.
But because Olivia seemed determined not to be intimidated.
Adrian stood when she approached.
“Olivia.”
She nodded.
“Mr. Vale.”
He smiled nervously.
“You can call me Adrian.”
She sat.
For several minutes, neither spoke.
Then Olivia asked the question Adrian had feared.
“Did you know about me?”
He shook his head.
“No.”
She studied him.
“Would you have wanted me?”
Adrian's eyes filled.
“Yes.”
Olivia looked away.
“That's easy to say now.”
He nodded.
“I know.”
She continued.
“My adoptive parents were wonderful. I had a good childhood.”
Adrian smiled.
“I'm glad.”
“But I spent years wondering why my biological parents gave me away.”
He swallowed.
“I can't answer for Rebecca.”
Olivia looked at him.
“But I can tell you I didn't know you existed.”
She nodded slowly.
Then asked, “Why did you come looking now?”
Adrian hesitated.
“Because a waitress recognized the sign language my mother taught me.”
Olivia stared.
Then laughed softly.
“That's the strangest answer I've ever heard.”
Adrian smiled.
“It is.”
For the first time, the tension eased.
They talked for two hours.
About teaching.
Books.
Chicago.
And the strange ways families found each other.
At the end, Adrian offered to help with Olivia's medical expenses.
She shook her head.
“I don't want your money.”
He nodded.
“Understood.”
She looked at him.
“I want to know who you are.”
May you like
Adrian smiled sadly.
“I'm still figuring that out.”
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