Dad, we need to talk.
I sat peacefully on the balcony of my small apartment, drinking coffee and watching morning traffic move through Dallas.
For the first time in years, I felt strangely light.
Not happy.
Not vindictive.
Free.
The following afternoon, Fiona called.
"They've retained counsel."
I smiled.
"Already?"
"Your daughter-in-law appears highly motivated."
"I'm shocked."
Fiona laughed.
"They want to negotiate."
"About what?"
"Everything."
I looked across the city skyline.
"There is nothing to negotiate."
Because there wasn't.
I wasn't suing them.
I wasn't punishing them.
I was simply leaving.
And suddenly they couldn't afford my absence.
Two days later, I received another call.
This time from an unfamiliar number.
I answered.
"Mr. Higgins?"
"Yes."
"My name is Kevin Walters. I represent your son and daughter-in-law."
Of course he did.
"We'd like to arrange a meeting."
"No."
A pause.
"I don't think you understand the situation."
"I understand it perfectly."
"Your son is under tremendous financial pressure."
I smiled slightly.
"That's unfortunate."
Another pause.
"Mr. Higgins... surely family is worth discussing."
I leaned back in my chair.
"Family was worth discussing three weeks ago."
The attorney had no response.
Because he understood exactly what I meant.
The conversation ended shortly afterward.
