On My Birthday I Stood In Front Of Everyone With A Black Eye

at what?” I asked softly. “Failing to be your father?”

He looked up, his eyes wide with surprise.

I slid the letter from Thomas under the slot. He picked it up with trembling hands and began to read. I watched as his face went through a storm of emotions: confusion, disbelief, and finally, a shuddering wave of grief.

Tears streamed down his face, silent continue reading …