I asked him to discuss it with me directly.

We met at a quiet restaurant where, when I was young, he’d celebrated business deals.

“I thought you’d be pleased,” he said.

“I am grateful you want to provide for them.

But they don’t need their identities made public, and Hannah needs to be involved in decisions affecting them.”

He set down his fork.

“They are Bradfords.”

“They are Elias and Rose,” I answered.