Chapter 13 - An Unexpected Olive Branch
Autumn brought crisp air and falling leaves. One evening, while Ryan was reviewing some spreadsheets in his home office, his cell phone vibrated. The caller ID read "Aunt Claire"—Eleanor’s younger sister, whom Ryan hadn't spoken to in nearly three years.
He hesitated, a knot forming in his stomach, before finally answering. "Hello, Claire."
"Ryan," her voice was soft, hesitant. "I know it’s been a long time. I just... I heard about what happened. With your mother. With the court case."
Ryan braced himself for an attack, expecting Claire to defend her sister. Instead, he heard a heavy sigh.
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"I just wanted to say I'm sorry," Claire continued. "Eleanor told the family a very different story, but I saw the public court records. I know what she did. She’s... she’s always been unwell, Ryan. I just wanted to tell you that you did the right thing. You protected your wife and your boy. I'm proud of you."
Ryan closed his eyes, a sudden, unexpected sting of tears pricking them. The validation from someone on his side of the family felt like a deep, soothing balm. He thanked her, and for the first time in years, he had a genuine, pleasant conversation with a blood relative.
