My vision narrowed.
I sank down into the dirt, gripping the photograph.
“No… no. That’s not… that’s me?!”
With shaking hands, I grabbed the letter and tore it open.
“My darling Tanya,
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.
