“That isn’t true.”
“But I’m the son who stayed nearby. I’m the one expected to help when something breaks. I’m the one who never lived up to your expectations.”
I stared at him.
Was that what he had believed all these years?
Had he truly convinced himself that I loved his sister more?
I had never intentionally favored either child. They were different people with different strengths, but I had loved them equally. I had attended Michael’s baseball games, helped him through college, supported his career, and welcomed his family into our home.
“Michael, I have always loved you,” I said. “I have always been proud of you.”
“Then prove it.”
“Giving you my property because you demanded it would not prove that I love you.”
“You were going to give it to Sarah.”
“I never said that. Your mother and I planned for the property to be divided fairly between both of you after my lifetime. But right now, I am alive, and this is still my home.”
