Kevin, ten, is taken aback upon discovering a package concealed within the worn-out couch that he inherited from his grandmother. But even more surprises await the child when he opens the box to find court documents and a letter that reveal a terrible reality about his family. Kevin is going to have to make a decision that will impact his entire life.
Granny gave Kevin a little worn and stained sofa in her will, which he glanced at. When the movers dropped it with a loud thump to the floor, he winced. In order to make sure the sofa wasn’t broken, he leaned closer and waved off a cloud of dust.
Kevin murmured, running his fingers over a dark stain left by his once-spilled juice on the sofa, “I’m going to miss Granny.” That day, Granny had been incredibly understanding and appeared more focused on getting him another drink than she did on fixing the sofa.
“Why weep for a shabby old trout that left you this garbage?Dad kicked at a corner of the sofa and shook his head.
“Dad, this isn’t garbage. A recollection of Granny. When I’m older and can support myself, I can’t spend more time with her.
Dad’s eyes narrowed and his lip turned into a snarl. Since your mother passed away, all she has done for us is give us problems. Did you forget that I was reported to Social Services by your grandmother? Furthermore, how did she give you over to that other family?”
Kevin shook his head. “They’re not all that horrible. For the next two days, they allowed me to stay here with you while Granny’s burial was taking place. I would like to live with you if I didn’t have to go back.
“We’ll work it out, little one,” Kevin’s father stroked his hair. With your nosy grandmother gone, I’ll see what I can do to regain custody of you so she can’t further her own agenda. We will once more be a family, you and I.
Kevin grinned. As he moved in to give Dad a hug, the man turned away. Dad slipped into his armchair, grabbed a drink from the refrigerator, and switched on the television. As soon as Dad started watching something, there were gunshots and profanity coming from the flat.
Kevin bent his shoulders and hung his head. He had been missing his father a lot, but unlike Mom, he had never been a loving man. Kevin gave a headshake. The pain was still too great to consider her. The darkest day of his life had been the funeral for his mother six months prior. Now, Granny had also departed.
He looked over the flat, but while he was away at Denise and Miguel’s, nothing had changed. This continued to be his home, and he had no intention of leaving. Dad was coming to make things right so he could remain here permanently.
Sighing, he took a seat on Granny’s couch. Something sharp and rigid jabbed him in the back. Kevin gasped and poked his hand at the seat.
He sobbed, “There’s something inside Granny’s sofa.”
Dad didn’t seem to hear Kevin’s yell as he continued to stare at the TV. He appeared to be completely absorbed in his TV program. Kevin raised the cushion on the sofa. Beneath it all was a ripped flap of material, only barely sewed in place.
Kevin went to the kitchen and got scissors. Though a little over large for the task, he awkwardly snipped the stitches to reveal a little, rectangular box. It had two words written in black marker and was taped shut at the edges:
“For Kevin.”
When the boy realized it was Granny’s writing, he grinned pitifully. With the scissors, he cut the tape and then reclined on the couch to look at the contents. After discovering a sealed envelope, he put it aside to examine the folded pages of some legal papers. Then he noticed an old letter from Granny.
Kevin, I apologize for pressuring you at such a young age, but this decision you make today will have a significant impact on both your future and well-being. You must understand that your father came back just to claim his inheritance. After I give you all the details, you have to determine if he deserves your love.
Kevin scowled. He looked over his shoulder just to make sure Dad was still preoccupied, then got back to reading.
As she staggered to her son-in-law’s apartment down the hall, Grandma Linda gasped. She was exhausted from climbing the stairs, but she had to see how her grandson was doing. She was concerned for Kevin’s wellbeing after receiving a message from the friend of her late daughter who lived in the building.
Jerry banged on the door for a few minutes before hurling open the door and giving her a fierce look. He was wobbly on his feet and had black circles under his eyes.
“Linda, why are you here?Jerry muttered in a harsh tone.
Jerry’s breath smelled so bad from alcohol that Linda almost choked on it.
“I went to visit Kevin.” What is his location?”
Jerry scratched his chin and looked around. “I’m not sure what day it is today.”
“Tuesday.” Linda walked into the flat, gasping at the empty Coke bottles, soiled clothes, and plastic meal containers all over the place. “How are things doing for you without Kelly?”
Jerry grumbled something incoherent and strolled toward the refrigerator. He opened the refrigerator and removed a package of lunch meat, then proceeded to assemble a sandwich.
“You can’t have been giving Kevin this, can you?”It’s the highly processed junk food in the refrigerator,” Linda said.
Jerry returned the lunch meat and lifted out a microwave supper, saying, “There’s nothing wrong with it.” Observe? The classic mac and cheese. There are carbs and dairy. It helps with growth and other things.
Linda put her hand to her temple. She regrets not being able to see what her daughter saw in this man, but it was too late to turn this around.
Jerry, the boy requires grains, unprocessed meat, and fresh fruits and veggies. I make sure Kevin gets all he needs by sending you money each month! But I hear that Kevin is filthy and runs around in ripped clothes. What is happening at this residence?”
Jerry gave a yawn. “Dirty and torn clothing is an indication of a fit, outdoor lifestyle. I mean, hasn’t that nosy Tina down the hall been talking shit about me behind my back? Linda, you shouldn’t trust a word she says. I am capable of taking care of my boy.
Yes, that much is evident from the quantity of liquor bottles stacked next to the couch and the untidy mess covering the carpets. How recently did you wash clothes? Additionally…
Linda’s eyes widened when she noticed that Kevin’s toys and sporting goods were absent from the chaos.”
“He enjoys electronics more. These days’ kids,” Jerry shrugged.
“However, I foot the bill for him to play soccer.”
“He wasn’t fond of it,” Jerry answered. “Are you finished asking questions?”
Is it his dislike of it or were you too indolent to bring him along to the training?”
Jerry rolled his eyes and moaned. “Quit being such a bothersome person. Everything is managed.
“Jerry, it’s obviously not under control. This unclean residence has no appropriate meals. I’ve been paying for sports clubs, but Kevin isn’t showing up, and you have no idea where he is!”
Jerry motioned to Linda, saying, “Now listen here, just because you send us some money, doesn’t mean you get to control how I raise my son or how I live my life. Linda, you are not in charge of me.
“Grandma?”
Kevin hurried toward Linda, who turned just in time to throw up her arms for an embrace. He smiled at her, and she could not believe how disheveled his clothing were, how filthy his hair was, and how worn his sneakers were.
“Oh my God,” Linda exclaimed. “What have you been up to?” Long ago, school let out.
Kevin shrugged and turned to face Jerry. “I walked home.” “You promised to pick me up from school yesterday, but you never did.”
“Oh..” Jerry gave his chin a scratch. “Yes, I did say I’d pick you up tomorrow. I meant to say tomorrow.” You must have become perplexed, young one.
Kevin made a silly expression. As he opened his mouth to speak, Jerry interrupted him, telling him to go do his homework. After Kevin departed the room, Linda confronted his dad.
“Hey, Jerry, listen up. I will say this only once. I understand that you’ve been through a lot since Kelly passed away, but you can’t continue in this manner for months on end. Kevin needs security, safety, wholesome food, an education, and clean clothes. As his parent, it is your responsibility to see to it that his requirements are satisfied.
“You meddling, elderly…,” Jerry furrowed his brow. “As I previously mentioned, just because you assist with the bills doesn’t mean you get to come in here and tell me what to do. I will do as I damn well please since this is my house.
Linda raised her finger at Jerry, saying, “Then consider this fair warning.” “You cannot destroy my grandson’s life. I’m not sending you money because you’re incorrect to believe that marinating yourself in drink and lounging in front of the TV constitute a fulfilling life.
Linda shuffled past the soiled garments scattered across the floor. Jerry, pull yourself together or suffer the consequences. I refuse to watch you crumble and allow you bring my grandchild down with you.
Linda was sitting on the main building’s bright veranda in her nursing home a few weeks later. She had taken out her current sewing project, but she was having trouble concentrating. She was waiting for someone, someone who could perhaps be able to rescue her from the horrible predicament she was in.
Linda waved and motioned for the nurse to come closer as soon as she rounded the corner.
Linda, is there anything you need help with?The nurse enquired.
Yes, Denise, there is, but I have to ask you for a great favor, I’m afraid.
Denise scowled as she took a seat next to Linda in the chair. That seems serious. Is everything alright?”
Linda gave a headshake. “I’ve appeared in court and with Social Services to get the parental rights of my son-in-law revoked. He has been ignoring Denise, my grandson! That boy, poor him. Jerry seems to only be concerned with getting the money from me and the state to help him take care of Kevin, I hate to say that.
“That’s very unfortunate, Linda, but I’m not sure what I can do to support you.”
“You can adopt Kevin with your spouse.”
Will you adopt your grandson?Denise’s mouth sprang open in shock.
Linda put her palm over Denise’s and said, “You’ve wanted to adopt for ages, dear, and I want to ensure my Kevin lives in a happy, loving home where he’ll be nurtured.” “If I could, I would take him, but it’s not possible. Attempting to place him with someone I trust is the best course of action that I have left.
“I’m unsure of what to say, Linda,” Denise grinned.
“I’m both very anxious and honored! However, I know my husband would feel the same way if we were to welcome Kevin into the family.
“Denise, bless you! Linda gave Denise a firm handshake and said, “I’ll talk to my lawyer and have her handle everything.” “You’ve taken a big weight off my shoulders and made this old dame very happy.”
Denise trembled as she said, “Well, you’ve given me an even greater gift: a child to love.” “OMG, I can’t believe that, owing to you, my dream is now a reality!”
Denise bent over to give Linda a hug. That Denise had accepted her plan made her very happy. She was now certain that Kevin would have a bright future and a loving family to grow up in.
And your accommodation will be here. How do you feel?”
As Denise and her husband, Miguel, showed off the bedroom they’d prepared for Kevin, Linda cocked her head to see how he would respond. Kevin rubbed his nose and looked around the room that was painted blue. Posters and vinyl stickers of console controllers were used by the pair to decorate the walls.
Kevin sighed and shrugged one shoulder, “It’s nice.”
Miguel and Denise looked at each other anxiously.
If you’re not happy with the decor, we can always replace it, Miguel remarked.
Linda suggested, “Let Kevin settle into the space for a while before making such important decisions.” She whispered to Kevin, “I know it’s strange, darling, but give them a chance,” as she rested a hand on his shoulder. They are kind individuals that will look after you very well.
Kevin spun around and dashed towards the front door. Linda let out a sigh and followed him. Once outdoors, she discovered Kevin ripping grass from the earth while seated on the front lawn. He would not respond to Linda’s statements, no matter what.
That night, Linda got ready for bed with conflicted emotions. Although she was glad Kevin was in a nice household, she was sorry to see that the transition had affected him so much.
But Linda was sure her grandson would find his feet eventually. He was a clever youngster, after all, and he would eventually come to the conclusion that Denise and Miguel made much better parents than Jerry. All it would take is time.
The telephone rang. When Linda noticed who had called, her heart started to race.
“Is everything in order?When Linda returned the call, she enquired.
“No,” Denise answered. “Linda, I went to see how Kevin was doing and asked if he wanted a cookie, but he’s not here! I looked all over! I believe he has fled.
Linda squeezed her nasal bridge. “Denise, I believe I know exactly where he disappeared. You need not worry any longer; I will return him to you.
Linda and Mrs. Jameson, Kevin’s caseworker, showed up at Jerry’s door. Kevin was in the flat, just as Linda had suspected. Linda went up to Jerry while Mrs. Jameson pulled Kevin away to talk to the boy.
“Does it bother you that all of your well-thought-out ideas fail?Jerry leaned heavily on the kitchen counter and gave her a sly smile. “Kevin will always run back home to his dad, where he belongs, no matter what you do.”
Linda looked past Jerry’s bloodshot eyes for any other emotion but smugness. His neglect wasn’t the result of a stressed-out parent coming to terms with their spouse’s passing. He didn’t appear to care about Kevin at all.
Linda then turned to face the new, large-screen TV and Jerry’s branded clothing. She squinted as she noted something else sitting directly below the TV: a shiny new gaming system. She had long felt that Jerry was a money-hungry man. She knew now that her scheme would succeed.
Linda took her checkbook out of her purse and said, “I think I know how to convince you to do the right thing here, Jerry.” Will fifty thousand be sufficient to persuade you to stop bothering Kevin?”
“Fifty thousand?Jerry crossed his arms and chuckled. “I’m sure you’re capable of more than that. We’ll see. Try three hundred thousand.
Linda let out a gasp. “I don’t have that type of money! Jerry, just take the fifty thousand. That’s all I have to give you.
Jerry sighed dramatically and tsked. “I guess Linda, you don’t really value your grandchild as much as you say you do. When the boy runs home, I’ll see you then.
Jerry staggered over to his armchair in the living room. Linda closed her purse and placed her checkbook in.
She had to take action to make sure Jerry didn’t get in the way of Kevin’s life. Her grandchild deserved the best, but this was a surefire path to disaster.
Though Kevin was still a young child, he should have been old enough to understand Jerry’s self-serving motivations. No child should have to face the reality that their parent was taking advantage of them financially.
Kevin came out of his bedroom and Mrs. Jameson followed him. Jerry gave him a shoulder pat without even taking his eyes off the TV as he said him farewell with tears in his eyes. There was only one way Linda could help Kevin, she concluded as she took him out of the apartment.
Granny wrote, “…so I devised a means for you to see the truth about the way he treats you for yourself and uncover your father’s true character.”
Jerry will be able to inherit all of my money under the terms of the legal documents in this box, but he has to keep his distance from you. He won’t be aware that the documents are falsified. Hand them over to him and watch his reaction.
You will know your father loves you more than money if he destroys the documents, but if he takes them to a lawyer, then you can be sure that Denise and Miguel provide you with a loving and safe environment.
Kevin scooped up the legal documents and put Granny’s letter back in the box. His pulse raced with fear as he glanced across at Dad, who was sitting there watching TV. Though concerns peeled at the back of his mind, he didn’t want to think Dad would abandon him.
“Hey, Papa!Kevin stepped across the room and presented the court documents. “These were in Grandma’s old sofa. I believe they belong to you.
Dad withdrew the papers from Kevin’s hand with a grumpy expression. As he read the agreement, Dad began to smile. Kevin’s worst fears came true when Dad got up from his chair and walked over to the door.
Kevin, I’m leaving. I have some critical tasks to complete today. I’ll see you later.
This was not going to happen! Kevin chased after his father, going outside with him. The fact that Dad left after reading those articles could have been a coincidence; perhaps he realized they needed milk and decided to head to the shop.
However, Dad ignored the store and walked by. Kevin trailed him for a few blocks till Dad went inside a quite posh-looking building.
Kevin pulled over to read the sign at the door. It was an office for a lawyer!
Kevin returned to the flat, wiping away his tears with an angry expression. That’s right, Granny, Dad loved money more than he did. It hurt, but he didn’t want to cry about it because Dad didn’t deserve to cry!
When Kevin returned to the apartment building, he knocked on the neighbor’s door. She didn’t take long to open the door.
“Hello Miss Tina,” Kevin uttered. “May I borrow your phone?”
Kevin rang the ring at Denise and Miguel’s front door an hour later.
“Kevin?As she opened the door, Denise scowled in concern. “We thought you would take another two days to return. Is everything in order?”
Kevin gave a sniff. Yeah, I guess so. I simply don’t think Dad is.
Denise knelt in front of him and placed her hands on his shoulders, saying, “Hey. You may talk to me about anything, and I’ll do all in my power to support you. It’s okay, whatever occurred, whatever you’re experiencing. I understand that we’re still getting to know one another, but Kevin, I’ve got you covered.
Kevin shook his head. “Many thanks, Denise. I’ve only been able to flee because of the kindness you and Miguel have shown me. I apologize.
Denise said with a small smile, “You’ve been going through a tough time, Kevin.” “How about a glass of milk and some cookies?” If you’d like, we may then discuss what’s bothering you.
Kevin gave Denise a smile. This was the most love he had felt since Mom passed away. He thanked Granny in his heart for requesting such good people to take care of him.