"I know we never made it official," said Shawn, "but you've been a father to me for decades now."
"And you know I've loved you like a son, Shawn. Always will." Jonathan replied genuinely- a reassurance he'd given the younger man many times over the years.
"Seeing as the adoption ship has probably sailed, I decided to formalize it, formalize us, in another way." Shawn glanced down at the document in his hand before passing it to Jonathan. In his life, he had rarely been as certain about anything as he was about this.
Jonathan held the document, seeing "Decree Changing Name" near the top. He read aloud, "The court orders: The name of (present name) Shawn Patrick Hunter is changed to (new name) Shawn Turner Hunter." There was a hitch in his voice as he finished the sentence.
"When we filed for Katy and Maya to change their names, I filed to change mine as well."
"Shawn…," Jonathan began, voice full of emotion, "this is so…and you're sure?"
"Completely. It's been on my mind for a while, but honestly, as soon as had the idea, I knew this is what I wanted." For reasons he didn't completely understand, this relatively simple act had brought Shawn more comfort, peace, and sense of belonging than he realized it would, like one more puzzle piece of his complicated being falling into place.
"I'm honored and floored, Hunter. You never fail to surprise and amaze me, in one way or another, and I am so proud of you."
"The honor's mine, Jon. Thank you for everything you've done and undoubtedly will continue to do for me. For our family. I know it hasn't always been easy."
"I'd do it again," Jonathan said with a knowing smile, "in a heartbeat. You—our family—it's more than worth it. Nothing can change that." He, too, felt comforted and that this official establishment may slightly ease the regret he had over not signing on the dotted line all those years ago.
The two men embraced warmly, both with tears in their eyes.