When Mr. Lewis passed away, the family’s attention turned immediately to the will. On the day of the reading, they gathered eagerly in the lawyer’s office, but were surprised to see a young girl, Harper, with the lawyer.
“Who is she?” Richard asked, confused.
“This is Harper,” the lawyer explained. “She’s here for the reading.”
Confusion spread as the lawyer continued. “Harper is the sole heir to Mr. Lewis’ estate.”
Chaos erupted. “What?!” Richard shouted. “She’s just a child!”
Olivia added, “We’re his family!”
The lawyer quieted them and began reading a letter from Mr. Lewis:
Dear Family,
I know this will surprise you, but please listen. Harper, the girl next door, became my greatest comfort in my final years. She noticed my struggles long before any of you did and visited me daily—not for money, but for companionship. She shared stories, played cards, and made me feel less alone.
What you don’t know is that Harper has her own battle. She was diagnosed with a terminal illness. Despite her struggles, she gave me love and kindness when I needed it most.
I have left everything to Harper so she can live her dreams. I hope, instead of fighting over my money, you will support her, as she supported me. Remember, love is the greatest inheritance.
The room fell silent as the weight of Mr. Lewis’ words sank in. Harper quietly added, “Mr. Lewis was my friend. I never wanted his money, just his time.”
In the months that followed, Harper used the inheritance to fulfill her dreams, traveling with her family and making the most of her time. When she passed, the remainder of the fortune was donated to charities supporting children with terminal illnesses.
Through her kindness, Harper had taught the Lewis family a powerful lesson: true wealth lies in love and connection, not money.