The papers revealed her parents had divorced before the accident. Her mother had died—but her father survived and chose to disappear. Court records showed Grandpa had fought to keep him involved, only to be ignored. In his letter, Grandpa explained he hid the truth to protect her heart. He wanted her to believe she was loved, even if one parent was gone. He left her an address in case she ever wanted answers.

Marin went there days later. The man didn’t recognize her. She calmly told him who she was, then walked away. Driving home, she finally cried—not for him, but for the grandfather who had loved her enough to carry the truth alone.