Hidden Desires - Family Secrets

Chapter 004 Indeed, the kid does look a bit unique

With the help of the embassy and local staff, I managed to take care of the final arrangements for Laura and her husband's family. Following local customs, I buried her in a peaceful place, free from the scars of war, where birds chirped and flowers bloomed—just the kind of place she loved most.

That night, I stayed by her grave the entire night, talking to her, reminiscing. I never imagined that when I saw her again, it would be to say goodbye forever.

After settling everything, it was time to fulfill my promise and look after Laura's only child, the legacy she left behind.

Coincidentally, my wife Betty teaches Language Arts at Lincoln Middle School, the very school Laura's son attends. Given the suddenness of it all, I was unsure whether to discuss this sensitive matter with Betty.

After all, the boy was my first love's child. Would Betty accept him if she knew?

Knowing Betty, she would accept him, but there might be a knot in her heart, and we had never really prepared ourselves for adopting a child.

I explained the situation to the TV station and requested an early return to the U.S., which was quickly approved. So, with Laura's promise and her final trust in me, I returned to the U.S. to find the boy I had never met, my future foster son, Michael Justin Davis.

The name "Michael Justin" must have a special meaning—Laura must have chosen it, blending my name with her son's as a token of her enduring affection.

Betty was stunned for a moment after hearing this, but she didn't say anything. She's a kind-hearted woman. She sighed, expressing her dismay at how war harms people, but she supported my decision, believing it was the right thing for a conscientious person to do. I felt relieved and grateful for her affirmation.

"By the way, what's the kid's name? I'll check the school records for you," Betty said, regaining her composure.

"His name is Michael Justin Davis..." I had already told Betty that the child was mixed-race. She always mentioned how unique and attractive mixed-race children looked on TV. Little did she know, I was about to bring one into our lives, and he was quite an uncommon mix.

"Ah... haha..." To my surprise, Betty chuckled upon hearing the name, covering her mouth with her hand. Her laughter was always so gentle and sweet.

"What's so funny, honey?" I was puzzled by her laughter, wondering if I had said something wrong.

"It's just that everything seems too coincidental. We don't need to check the school records. This Michael Justin Davis is actually a student in my class. He just started sixth grade, and I've been his homeroom teacher for over half a year now..." Betty stopped laughing and smiled as she spoke.

"Uh..." I was speechless. It seemed like fate had its own plans, making Betty his teacher.

"Indeed, the kid does look a bit unique. I've noticed him before. He has big eyes and slightly fuller lips. Overall, he doesn't really look Asian, more like an American," Betty recalled, then led me to her classroom.