We frequently encounter moments in life that call into question how we perceive family, love, and trust.

These difficulties have had a new significance for Henry, a parent who lost his spouse five years ago. He recently came over a letter from his late wife that disclosed a distressing secret.

Here’s his letter

Five years ago, my wife passed away in a tragic acc:ident. It was sudden and left me alone to raise our 10-year-old son. Shortly before her pas:sing, she left me a letter, but I couldn’t bring myself to read it until today. What I discovered in that letter has shaken me to my core.

The letter said: “My dearest husband, I don’t have much time left and there’s something I need to confess. About 11 years ago, I had a brief affair. I am deeply ashamed, and it has haunted me all this time. The worst part is, I’m not sure whether our son is yours or the other man’s. I’m so sorry for betraying your trust, and I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me, even if you can never forgive what I’ve done.”

Upon reading this, I immediately went for a DNA test. The results confirmed that my son is, indeed, mine. However, the letter has left me with more questions than answers. Was my wife truly faithful? Was she unsure about our son’s paternity? I’ve been carrying this burden alone, struggling to process it all.

My son is now 15 years old, and I have never mentioned the letter to him. He has no idea of the doubts it raised or the emotional weight I’ve been carrying. I’m at a crossroads-should I come clean and share this letter with him, or is it something I should keep to myself? Am I wrong for not being upfront with him from the start? I’ve been living what feels like a lie, but I fear the consequences of shattering his sense of security and trust. I find myself unsure of what the right course of action is, and I’m hoping for some guidance.