Marcus asked Mason about the statement later that evening, after his attorney advised him how to approach the subject without making the child feel responsible for a legal dispute.
They sat in the living room with Marcus's sister nearby.
Lily was resting on the sofa beneath a soft blanket, watching an animated film. She'd eaten a light meal, and Marcus had arranged for her medical appointment. She appeared more comfortable, though she continued glancing toward the kitchen whenever someone mentioned food.
Mason sat opposite Marcus, holding a glass of water.
For several seconds, Marcus studied him.
Then he spoke gently.
"Buddy, I saw a document with your name on it."
The boy frowned.
"What document?"
"It says you witnessed things about Lily and that you agree with what your mom wrote."
Mason's expression changed.
He looked frightened.
"I didn't write anything."
Marcus nodded.
"Okay."
The boy leaned forward.
"Did she say I did?"
Marcus took a slow breath.
"Your name appears on a statement. I'm trying to understand whether you knew about it."
Mason shook his head quickly.
"No."
He looked toward the hallway.
Then continued.
"She asked me to sign something on her tablet last week."
Marcus became still.
"What did she tell you it was?"
"A school form."
Mason looked down.
"She said she needed my signature so I could go on the science trip."
Marcus felt a chill.
The boy continued.
"I wrote my name with the little pen thing. But I didn't read anything about Lily."
For several seconds, Marcus couldn't speak.
Then he looked toward his sister.
Her expression was grim.
Marcus returned his attention to Mason.
"Thank you for telling me."
The boy's eyes filled.
"Am I in trouble?"
Marcus shook his head.
"No."
Mason swallowed.
Then asked the question he'd clearly been holding back.
"Is Mom going to say I lied?"
Marcus leaned forward.
"I don't know what she'll say. But you don't need to change your answer to make anyone happy. Just tell the truth about what you remember."
Mason nodded.
Then he looked toward Lily.
For a moment, his expression softened.
"She doesn't know how to lie like Mom wanted."
Marcus looked at him.