The Call That Ended Six Years of Lies
Grant opened his contacts and found Everett Cole. He had saved the retired attorney’s number during the audit.
Cole answered after several rings.
“Hello?”
“Everett, it’s Grant Hollowell.”
A long pause followed.
Grant put the call on speaker.
“I’m here with Tessa Marlowe, my mother, and the four sons I was never told existed.”
Cole exhaled heavily.
“Grant…”
“I need the truth.”
Another pause. Then Cole spoke.
“Your mother asked me to separate the two of you. She provided the instructions. I prepared the letters.”
Vivienne closed her eyes. Tessa covered her mouth with one hand. Grant remained still.
“Do you have records?”
“Yes.”
“Send them to my legal counsel tonight.”
Cole agreed. Grant ended the call.
Vivienne looked suddenly older.
“You would destroy this family over one mistake?”
Grant shook his head.
“No. I’m trying to rebuild the part of my family you decided didn’t matter.”
He pointed toward the elevator.
“Please leave.”
“Grant—”
“Tonight, I’m asking politely.”
Vivienne looked at the boys one last time. Then she entered the elevator. The doors closed.
