LEFT BEHIND

By Meloira

Part 3

Carl was still in shock. For what seemed the hundredth time, he traced the outline of the envelope in his hands. He knew he should open it, but he just couldn’t bring himself to do it.

"Me? Cass, are you sure? Read the will again."

"Carl, I am very sure. It was both Ryan and Vicky’s wish that you become their children’s sole guardian in the event of their deaths. When they came to me after Clara’s birth, they were very clear on that point. It’s what they wanted Carl."

"But what about Marley or Peter? Even Rachel? Surely one of them would have been a better choice."

"I’m not in the habit of questioning my client’s choices when it comes to their children. Ryan and Vicky chose you Carl. Now, if you don’t want to honor their wishes…"

"I never said that. I will do as they asked, but what about the rest of the family? Won’t they contest the will? After all, I am Carl Hutchins."

"You heard them in there Carl," Cass replied in exasperation. "Not one of them said anything about standing in your way."

"Forgive me, but I’m having a hard time taking this all in." Carl sat down heavily as the realization of his situation hit him. "So, now I am responsible for the lives of my grandbabies. I’ve never raised one child, let alone five. I pray my son knew what he was doing."

"I’m sure they did Carl. Ryan was a very wise man and he’ll be missed a great deal." Cass closed his briefcase. "Perhaps whatever’s in that envelope will help you understand his decision."

"Thank you for everything you’ve done these last few days Cass. I’m not sure I could have made it without you or Frankie." Carl held out his hand and Cass took it.

"Don’t mention it. Besides, what are friends for? I need to pick up Charlie from the babysitter’s, but I’ll see you later, okay?"

"Thanks again," Carl said as he watched Cass leave, the quiet in the room increasing by tenfold. For one of the few times since the accident, he was completely alone.

Carl held the envelope in front of him, debating whether he should open it or let it be. After all, it contained the last words and thoughts he would ever receive from Ryan and opening it would bring an end to part of their connection. However, leaving it sealed would be sheer torture. Carl didn't know which would be worse.

Cautiously, he picked at a corner. What could it hurt to open it? He slowly eased back the edges of the flap and withdrew the papers within. He simply had to know.

Dad,

If you’re reading this I guess it means Vicky and I are gone. If so, I’m sorry. Leaving you and the children behind is the last thing I’d ever want to do.

By now you know that me and Vic want you to have sole custody of Steven, Kirk, Franklin, Michael and Clara. Your first question was probably ‘Why me?’ The answer is because I love you Dad. I love you and I believe in you and I want my kids to have what was kept from me. You’re a good man Carl Hutchins. I know you don’t believe that about yourself, but you are. You’ve spent these last years proving the hatred is gone and I am so proud I can call myself your son. Remember that Dad. Remember that I will never let you be alone.

Love, Ryan

Carl carefully folded the letter, tears streaming down his face. Ryan had placed the lives of his children squarely in his hands. Carl only hoped he wouldn’t let his son down.

"What am I to do Ryan? What am I to do?"

Carl let loose all the emotions he’d been holding back and wept. What was he going to do? How could he possibly raise those children and do it right? He was hopeless. Carl hung his head in defeat. What had his son been thinking? He had to do as Ryan asked and become the children’s surrogate father. He had no idea what he would do, but he knew now was not the time for doubt and self-recrimination. Now was the time for action. After all the lost time, he couldn’t let his son down. Carl drew himself up to his full height and prepared to face whatever might come.

"I promise I will remember, my boy. I promise I will not disappoint you." He placed the precious letter in his pocket and went to find his future.

THE END

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Feedback is always appreciated(;

Quick note: In this story Rachel never chased down Carl in New York and they never attended the ball together. In other words, C & R never married in this story's universe. I sorta have a sequel to this one in mind, so if anyone would like to see it drop me a little +post

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