An unusual letter provides the catalyst for one woman to uncover a secret kept from her for years, and receive unexpected wealth.
Gregory locked the door to the small corner shop where he’d worked as a cashier for the last twenty years. His coat was too old and thin to keep the chill from his bones as he walked home, but he smiled nonetheless. It had been another great day at work.
Gregory’s wife had never understood how he found satisfaction in what she called a low-level job. She’d left him because she felt he lacked ambition, but he still had his daughter.
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Linda was standing in the foyer of the apartment block where she and Gregory lived when he entered the building. She had also recently started working as a cashier and still wore her uniform. In one hand, she held a letter.
“What have you got there, Linda?” Gregory asked as he approached her.
Linda looked up, startled. “You tell me, Dad. I’m too scared to open it.”
Gregory frowned and took the letter from his daughter. The name of a legal practice was printed on the envelope.
“Why would a lawyer be contacting me?”
Gregory shrugged. He tore the envelope open and studied the papers inside. His jaw dropped, and his fingers began shaking as he read.
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“It’s bad, isn’t it?”
“It’s… strange. According to this letter, somebody has left you a business comprising three restaurants, and it’s worth nearly four million dollars.”
“What!” Linda snatched the letter from Gregory’s hands. “It’s got to be a scam.”
“I did this to find out whether you’re a good person.”
“There’s an easy way to find out.” Gregory leaned over to indicate the lawyer’s phone number on the letterhead.
Linda called the lawyer and arranged a meeting for the next day. Gregory accompanied her.
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“This has got to be a mistake,” Linda told the lawyer when they entered his office.
“I don’t know anyone who would leave me a business.”
The lawyer shook his head. “There’s no mistake, Miss. My client, Matthew Markham, was very particular in his instructions.”
Gregory felt as though he’d been electrocuted. “Please, say that name again.”
“Matthew Markham.”
Gregory understood everything then. He hung his head and burst into tears.
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A few months earlier…
Matthew shivered with anxiety as he approached the cashier. He set down the packet of gum and stared at the man who rang it up. The nametag on his chest said ‘Gregory.’ He was the right man.
“Sir? Are you okay?”
“Fine.” Matthew realized he’d zoned out and handed the cashier a five-dollar bill. “But I do need to talk to you. It’s about Linda.”
The man looked up sharply at the customer who had just uttered his little daughter’s name. “Is she in some kind of trouble?”
Matthew shook his head. “Do you have a few minutes, please?”
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Matthew and Gregory arranged to meet at a diner nearby during Gregory’s lunch break. While Matthew waited, he thought over the revelations that had brought him to this point.
A few days earlier, he’d been discussing his terminal illness with a close friend, Jeremy, and lamenting that he had no heirs to whom he could leave his restaurant business.
Then Jeremy dropped a bombshell on him: Matthew had a daughter he didn’t know about. His ex-girlfriend had died in childbirth, and the baby was placed up for adoption.
Matthew immediately hired a detective to track her down. Days later, he was finally sitting down with Gregory, the man who’d adopted his daughter.
Matthew explained to Gregory that he was Linda’s biological father and then asked the question that was foremost in his mind:
“Does Linda know she was adopted?”
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“No, and you can’t tell her, sir.” Gregory looked at him pleadingly. “My wife left me a couple of months back, and I can’t lose Linda too. Please, don’t take her from me.”
Matthew was torn. He wanted to know his daughter but didn’t want to cause problems for the man who’d raised her. He also didn’t want to upset his daughter’s life by introducing himself when he only had a few months more to live.
“What is she like?” Matthew asked. “Is she a good person?”
Gregory smiled. “She’s an amazing person. She’s kind and treats everyone equally.”
Matthew nodded. He was starting to get an idea.
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The next day, Matthew disguised himself as a poor man and went to the store where Linda worked as a cashier. He took a few essential food items to her checkout and waited while she rang them up.
“I’m sorry, Miss,” he said once she told him the cost.
“I can’t afford all of that. I’ve only got ten dollars.”
“Don’t worry about it, sir.” Linda smiled at him. “I’ll cover the rest.”
Matthew left the store and returned a week later. This time, he wore his finest suit. He chose several of the most expensive items in the store and again went to Linda’s checkout.
“Get out of the way,” Matthew shouted as he pushed his way to the front of the queue. “I’m in a hurry and need to be served fast.”
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He set his purchases down in front of Linda and waved his hands at her. “Hurry up, girl, I’ve got an important meeting to attend.”
“Then you’ll have to tell them you’re going to be delayed.” Linda pushed his purchases aside and gestured to the woman behind him. “You’re next, ma’am.”
“I need to be served first!” Matthew exclaimed.
“That’s too bad, sir. I don’t allow anyone to push to the front of the queue, no matter how important you think you are.”
Matthew grinned from ear to ear. “I’m glad you said that.”
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He reached for a bouquet of yellow lilies and placed the cash to pay for them on the counter. “These are for you, Linda. My name is Matthew, and I did this to find out whether you’re a good person.”
“Do me one favor, please, and remember my name when you see these lilies.”
Present day…
“Matthew is the name of your biological father, Linda,” Gregory said. “You’re adopted.”
“Why did you never tell me?”
“I’m so sorry. I never wanted you to feel bad about it. Then your mother left, and I was afraid you’d leave me too if you knew I wasn’t your real father.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Pexels
Linda hugged him. “I’d never do that, dad.”
The lawyer cleared his throat. “As I was saying, my client bequeathed his three restaurants to you, his sole heir, when he passed away a month ago. These restaurants are each worth over a million dollars.”
“Mr. Markham also had a special request. He wanted me to give you something.”
The lawyer left the room and soon returned with a bouquet of yellow lilies, which he presented to Linda.
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Linda cradled the flowers in her arms. “I understand now.” She turned to Gregory. “He came into my shop once and asked that I remember his name when I see yellow lilies.”
Gregory placed a hand on Linda’s shoulder. “I’m sure he was very proud of you, Linda, and will continue to be proud of you from heaven.”
What can we learn from this story?
Treat people equally, and you will be rewarded. Matthew was encouraged to leave his business to Linda when he saw that she was a good person.
One can find happiness in a simple life. Gregory and Linda were both happy to work as cashiers and earn an honest living.
Share this story with your friends. It might brighten their day and inspire them.
If you enjoyed this story, you might like this one about a woman who discovers the house she’s been cleaning for the past ten years belongs to her.
This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life.
‘Classic and Chic’: Fans Gush Over the ‘Best Dressed’ Lady at Donald Trump’s Inauguration – Photos
Aside from a pivotal figure dazzling netizens with the widely praised ensemble she wore at Donald Trump’s inauguration, other esteemed women attended the prestigious event in eye-catching outfits.
On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump became the 47th President of the United States during his second inauguration in Washington, DC. Amid the elite and elegantly dressed people in attendance was a certain First Lady who garnered swoon-worthy compliments from social media users, dubbing her the best dressed.
Fan comment about a woman who attended Donald Trump’s inauguration, posted on January 21, 2025. | Source: X/@hikingatrail
Fan comment about a woman who attended Donald Trump’s inauguration, posted on January 21, 2025. | Source: X/@hikingatrail
The public figure who stole the show at the inauguration was none other than First Lady of the US (FLOTUS) Melania Trump. Her outfit — a sleek, double-breasted navy coat with sharp lapels and a structured silhouette — exuded sophistication and timeless elegance.
Melania Trump during the Reviewing the Troops Ceremony at Donald Trump’s inauguration in Washington, DC on January 20, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Melania Trump during the Reviewing the Troops Ceremony at Donald Trump’s inauguration in Washington, DC on January 20, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Melania paired her ensemble with black closed-toe heels and gloves. Topping off her look was a bold, wide-brimmed navy hat with a white band, adding a modern yet classic flair to her appearance.
Melania Trump with her hand on her chest and Donald Trump saluting during the Reviewing the Troops Ceremony. | Source: Getty Images
Melania Trump with her hand on her chest and Donald Trump saluting during the Reviewing the Troops Ceremony. | Source: Getty Images
The designer behind her stunning outfit, Adam Lippes, boasted about his creation on Instagram with a heartfelt post.
Alongside a photo of Melania standing beside a soldier in uniform, Adam wrote, “The tradition of the presidential inauguration embodies the beauty of American democracy, and today we had the honor to dress our First Lady, Mrs. Melania Trump. Mrs. Trump’s outfit was created by some of America’s finest craftsmen, and I take great pride in showing such work to the world.”
Equally noteworthy was Melania’s striking hat, designed by Eric Javits, who shared his enthusiasm on Instagram through a carousel of images showcasing the item from various angles.
A close-up view of Melania Trump’s hat, posted on January 21, 2025. | Source: Instagram/ericjavits
A close-up view of Melania Trump’s hat, posted on January 21, 2025. | Source: Instagram/ericjavits
The carousel also included an intimate behind-the-scenes video of Eric meticulously crafting the piece from scratch.
Eric Javits crafting Melania Trump’s hat from scratch. | Source: Instagram/ericjavits
Eric Javits crafting Melania Trump’s hat from scratch. | Source: Instagram/ericjavits
In his caption, he revealed his admiration for the First Lady, writing, “It was my great honor and privilege to create the hat our First Lady, Melania Trump, wore for the inaugural swearing-in of our 47th President! She has the inner grace, beauty, and presence to transform what was really a very simple, restrained hat style into what became a ‘wow’ moment. The First Lady’s hat was made with love.”
Melania’s inauguration ensemble sparked a whirlwind of online admiration, as netizens flooded social media with praise for her impeccable style.
“Jaw-dropping high fashion returns to DC. Melania Trump was born for this moment. Magnificent!” exclaimed a fan, whose comment was accompanied by a striking photo of Melania in her iconic hat.
Melania Trump at her husband’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Melania Trump at her husband’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Another declared, “She was the best dressed [sic] lady at the inauguration,” while a fellow admirer added, “Melania Trump is always the BEST dressed woman in any room. I adore her style & grace 😍.”
Melania Trump looks on during the inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Melania Trump looks on during the inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
“Melania’s Outfit and Hat stole the show at the Trump Inauguration! STYLE POINTS! #melania #melaniatrump #firstlady #firstladymelania #melaniahat #melaniaoutfit #melaniafashion #FashionoftheFirstLady #TrumpInauguration2025” penned a supporter.
Donald and Melania Trump looking on during his inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Donald and Melania Trump looking on during his inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Admiration for Melania’s elegance was unanimous, with fans raving about her poise and timeless fashion sense. Yet another supporter enthusiastically declared, “Classy as always!”
Someone else echoed, “Melania looked very chic,” while an admirer swooned, “Absolutely, beautiful and elegant!” “Very regal! 👸 ❤️🤍💙,” gushed another.
Melania Trump at a luncheon following Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Melania Trump at a luncheon following Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
One fan expressed heartfelt relief and joy at Melania’s return to the public eye, sharing, “Elegance, grace, and beauty. I am so relived [sic] and happy that First Lady Melania is back. Her outfits have been a pleasure to witness thus far.” Another summarized the online consensus perfectly, writing, “Classic and chic. Stunning.”
Melania Trump smiling at her husband’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Melania Trump smiling at her husband’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
While Melania Trump appeared to be the belle of the ball, other prominent women also stood out with their stunning ensembles, including the Second Lady and wife of Vice President JD Vance, Usha Vance.
Making her entrance with effortless grace, Usha captivated onlookers in a custom-designed outfit by Oscar de la Renta.
Second Lady Usha Vance standing with Vice President JD Vance during Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Second Lady Usha Vance standing with Vice President JD Vance during Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
The ensemble featured a soft peony cashmere coat with a built-in scarf wrap, paired elegantly with a complementing tea-length dress.
She completed the look with suede knee-high boots and a delicate clutch, creating a polished and feminine aesthetic. The fashion house celebrated the moment on Instagram by sharing photos of Usha’s look.
Ivanka Trump, the daughter of the newly inaugurated president, also stood out in her outfit, as she made a striking entrance alongside her husband, Jared Kushner, and their son.
She donned a forest green ensemble featuring a cinched-waist peplum jacket that accentuated her figure, and paired this with a matching pencil skirt. The monochromatic look was completed with a beret, sleek black heels, black leather gloves, and a structured handbag.
Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner and their son Joseph departing from the East Front of the United States Capitol. | Source: Getty Images
Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner and their son Joseph departing from the East Front of the United States Capitol. | Source: Getty Images
Tiffany Trump, Donald’s youngest daughter, turned heads in a striking navy velvet coat. The floor-length design featured a double-breasted silhouette and a cinched waist. She paired the look with black, heeled boots.
Tiffany Trump and her husband Michael Boulos after her dad’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Tiffany Trump and her husband Michael Boulos after her dad’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Lauren Sanchez, partner of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, made a chic statement at the inauguration in a tailored white blazer. Her sophisticated outfit was complemented by a sheer top underneath and sparkling drop earrings.
Priscilla Chan, Mark Zuckerberg, and Lauren Sanchez at the US Capitol. | Source: Getty Images
Priscilla Chan, Mark Zuckerberg, and Lauren Sanchez at the US Capitol. | Source: Getty Images
Priscilla Chan, wife of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, opted for a cozy yet polished look. She wore a light blue cardigan with delicate gold buttons and accessorized with stunning pearls.
Priscilla Chan looking at Mark Zuckerberg’s phone as they stand next to each other during Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Priscilla Chan looking at Mark Zuckerberg’s phone as they stand next to each other during Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Lara Trump, wife of Eric Trump, donned a sophisticated yet bold outfit. She wore a navy textured coat with fringe detailing at the hem and sparkling silver buttons running down the front.
Lara and Eric Trump leaving after Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
Lara and Eric Trump leaving after Donald Trump’s inauguration. | Source: Getty Images
The outfit highlighted her sleek silhouette, while the thigh-high slit added a touch of modernity. Completing the look, Lara paired the ensemble with black heels.
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