He refused to marry his pregnant girlfriend. His mother backed him, but his father stood up for the unborn child.
Dad, Ive got news. The neighbour, Emily shes pregnant. Its mine, said James, barely through the door.
Edward, his father, paused for a moment before replying calmly, Well, marry her then.
Are you mad? Im still young. Its not the time to start a family, and we werent even serious
Werent serious? Edwards smile was cold. So you were man enough to chase a girl, but when its time to take responsibility, suddenly youre a boy. Fine. Without another word, he called sharply for his wife, Margaret! Come here!
Margaret walked into the kitchen, drying her hands on her apron. Whats the matter?
Listen. Our sons got a girl pregnant and now he wont marry her. Emily, the neighbours daughter. And hes trying to slink away like a coward.
Margaret didnt even flinch. Her face hardened. And hes right. Why bring the first girl who comes along into this house? Girls these days are cunningthey find someone with money, get pregnant, and then demand marriage. Next thing you know, the child isnt even his. He should get a test. And besides, we shouldnt pressure Jameshes still young. Hes a man; it was hard to resist. But were not obliged to raise someone elses child.
Edward took a deep breath and muttered, What if it really is his?
So what if it is? Are we obliged to shoulder that responsibility? Tell him to take the test, and well know.
She turned on her heel and went back to the kitchen, leaving Edward alone with his son.
You know, I was young once too, he began. I loved one girl, but I married another. Not for love, but out of duty. Because being a man isnt just about passionits about choices and consequences. Your mother was pregnant. I didnt know if I could stay with her, but I knew one thing: the child wasnt to blame. My blood, my conscience. And you know what, James? Despite it all, I never regretted staying.
Three months passed. The DNA test came back clear: with 99.9% certainty, James was the father of Emilys child.
So what? Margaret scoffed when Edward placed the paper in front of her. Yes, hes the father. That doesnt mean Emilys living under this roof. Shes not setting foot in here. Ive said my piece!
James sat silently, avoiding his fathers gaze. His expression made it clear hed chosen his mothers side. He clenched his fists but said nothing.
Edward rose slowly from the table. If the two of you have made your decision, now hear mine.
His voice was deep, steady.
As long as I live, my grandchild wont go without. Ill buy land, build a house, and hemy bloodwill have everything Ive worked for. And the two of you can no longer count on my help. I refuse to be part of this disgrace. James, as of today, youre no longer my son. Everything I have goes to that child. You wont see a penny from me.
Margaret exploded. Have you lost your mind? Youd disown your own son?
Edward didnt answer. He simply turned and walked away, ignoring the shouts and curses behind him. James remained, frozen, unable to believe his father had said it. But he knewif Edward said it, he meant it.
