To my darling daughter, Evelyn. If you are reading this, someone has finally told you the truth.
She began crying before opening it.
Caleb stood beside her.
He wanted to comfort her.
But he knew the moment belonged to her.
So he waited.
Evelyn broke the seal.
And began reading the words her father had left behind.
The letter began with an apology.
My dearest Evelyn,
If these words have reached you, then I have failed to tell you something I should have explained while I was still strong enough to sit beside you and speak plainly.
I have made mistakes in business. I have trusted men who deserved more scrutiny, and I have allowed pride to make certain disagreements harder than necessary. But I have not abandoned your inheritance.
Victor Harrow will tell you that Willow Creek belongs to him. He may produce papers that appear to support that claim. Do not accept them without examination.
The original loan was settled. I kept a record of the payment, along with evidence that the security should have been released. I also discovered that certain pages of the ranch accounts had been altered after the final settlement.
I have entrusted the relevant papers to a place where I hope they will remain safe until you are ready to examine them. Caleb Mercer knows where the compartment is, although he does not know everything it contains.
Trust him with the truth, but do not ask him to make every decision for you. You have a better mind for these matters than either of us.
Evelyn stopped reading.
Her eyes filled.
Caleb looked toward the floor.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then she continued.
There is also a matter concerning the western pasture. I transferred that land to Caleb years ago, and he accepted it reluctantly. The deed was recorded before my later dealings with Harrow. Whatever happens to the remainder of Willow Creek, that portion should not be treated as an asset belonging to Harrow.
I hope Caleb will someday build a home there.
I also hope you will find a place where you can live without being made to apologize for the body God gave you.
Evelyn covered her mouth.
Tears fell onto the paper.