CHAPTER 16: The DNA Result
The DNA result arrived on a Wednesday afternoon.
Edward had prepared himself for legal language, percentages, and paperwork. He had not prepared himself for how hard his hands would shake when the envelope opened.
The report confirmed a biological relationship between Edward Ashborne and Lily Anna Hart consistent with grandparent and grandchild.
Daniel read it twice, then covered his face.
Samuel looked at Lily with a tired smile. “Told you, little bird.”
Lily frowned. “Does this mean I’m rich?”
Edward almost laughed through his tears.
“It means you are family.”
She thought about that. “Do I have to change my last name?”
“Only if you want to.”
She touched the locket. “My mom used Hart because she said hearts remember things names forget.”
Edward nodded slowly. “Then we will remember both.”
That evening, he called a private meeting with the Ashborne board. The foundation accounts were frozen. Victoria’s authority was revoked. Her portrait was removed from the gala wall before sunset.
The board members looked frightened, not loyal. Many had benefited from not asking questions.
Edward stood at the head of the table.
“For eleven years,” he said, “this company protected its image better than it protected its blood. That ends today.”
One director tried to object. “Edward, public stability is important.”
Edward placed Lily’s DNA report on the table.
“So is truth.”
No one spoke after that.
Outside the boardroom, Lily waited with Samuel. She had fallen asleep in a chair, still wearing the butterfly locket.
Edward watched her through the glass door and realized something painful.
May you like
He had not saved her.
She had saved what was left of him.
