Chapter 7 - Knocking on the RootRichard reached out his trembling hand and knocked three times on the heavy oak door.
KNOCK. KNOCK. KNOCK.
The sound echoed through the quiet forest.
Inside the warm, subterranean living room, Harold set down his carving knife. Elaine looked up from her stove, her hand resting over her heart.
Harold walked slowly up the hand-carved wooden stairs, lifted the brass latch, and opened the door.
The bright afternoon sunlight streamed into the opening, illuminating Haroldâs white hair, strong shoulders, and calm, unshakeable eyes.
Standing outside in the mud, soaked in rain, were his five children.
Richard took a step forward, his voice choking with tears. âDad...?â
Harold looked at his five adult children. He didn't yell. He didn't frown. His expression was as steady and peaceful as the mountain behind him.
âHello, Richard,â Harold spoke softly, his voice rich and deep. âWhat brings you into the deep forest?â
Michael stepped forward, pulling a thick legal folder from his wet coat. âDad! Weâve been searching everywhere for you! The mining company needs your signature on the four-million-dollar contract! It expires tomorrow!â
Harold looked at the legal folder, then turned his eyes to Catherine, who was crying silently behind her brothers.
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âFour million dollars,â Harold said quietly, a faint, sad smile touching his lips. âIs that what finally brought my children to see me?â
The five siblings froze, the words striking them like a physical blow.
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