If you’re reading this, it means I’ve left this world before telling you the truth myself.
I didn’t abandon you. I was removed. Your mother was young, and my own mistakes were many. Her family thought they knew best.
But I am your father.
I contacted Nancy once, years ago. And she told me where you lived. I moved in not long after. I tried to stay close without hurting you, or her. I watched you grow into being a mother.
I’ve always been proud of you.
You deserve more than secrets. I hope this sets you free.
You’ll also find legal papers inside. I’ve left everything I own to you. Not out of obligation, but because you are my daughter. I hope this helps you build the life I couldn’t give you then.
All my love, always,
Dad.”
**
There was another envelope as well. “For Nancy,” it read.
Alongside it sat a notarized declaration from nearly four decades ago, officially naming me as his daughter and sole heir. My fingers trembled so violently I nearly let it slip.
**
Richie found me beneath the apple tree, knees stained with mud, tears carving tracks down my cheeks. He dropped beside me, concern etched deep across his face.
“Tan… what happened? Are you hurt?”
Without speaking, I handed him the letter and the photograph.
He skimmed them quickly, confusion flickering as his eyes moved over the lines.
Then he looked at me gently. “Baby, you… he was your father?”
I nodded, unable to force out a single word.
Richie pulled me into his arms as I broke down.
“We’ll sort this out. We’ll talk to your mom. We’ll get the truth.”
I pulled away, wiping my cheeks with the back of my hand. “He lived right next door to me. All these years. And I never knew.”
Richie’s voice was soft. “You weren’t meant to know, Tanya. Not until now. That’s what they all decided, right?”
I nodded again, my chest aching.
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