I didn’t answer right away. When I left the room, my dad stood up immediately. “You okay?” he asked.
I looked at him—the man who chose me without obligation. Who stayed without requirement. “I know,” I said softly.
His shoulders sagged, just a little. “I never wanted it to matter,” he said. “But I was afraid it might.”
I wrapped my arms around him. “You’re my dad. That’s not up for debate.”
He hugged me back like he’d been holding his breath for nineteen years.
She passed away three days later. I kept my promise. But I visit her grave sometimes. Not out of obligation. Out of understanding. And every time I leave, I go home—to the man who never left at all.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered. Any resemblance is coincidental. The author and publisher disclaim accuracy, liability, and responsibility for interpretations or reliance. All images are for illustration purposes only.
