At the age of 13, she gave birth to a child, and 18 years later, on her daughter’s birthday, she received a letter from the hospital, after which the girl’s father confessed for the first time that he was hiding the truth.…

her that decision belonged to you, Emily, and that you would make it when you were ready.

 

She left an address and a photograph of Lucas.

I didn’t give them to you.

You were only beginning to recover, and I couldn’t bear the thought of reopening those wounds.

Then months became years.

Every time I thought about telling you, I convinced myself that protecting your peace was more important.

Now I understand that I should have trusted you with the truth.

Please forgive me for keeping silent.

You have every      I got to have a real childhood.”

 

She stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Emily.

“I know how much you sacrificed for me. And now I want you to start living a little for yourself, too.”

Martha turned away, wiping her cheeks.

Emily held her daughter tightly.

Then she looked toward the framed photograph of her father