Dad always told me he discovered me at three months old, wrapped in a blanket with a note saying my mother could no longer care for me. The next morning, he attended his high school graduation holding me. In the years that followed, he worked construction, delivered food, and learned everything from school lunches to caring for me through illness. Money was sometimes scarce, but his presence never was. He made sure I felt wanted.
At my graduation, a woman appeared, saying there were things I needed to know about him. Dad asked her to leave, but I wanted answers. Still, I took his hand and assured him he remained my father, whatever came next. Her explanation stayed unresolved that day. I crossed the stage while he applauded, choosing to celebrate our shared journey. Questions about the past could wait; the love that had carried me there deserved its moment.
