He arrived happy.
The truck carried building supplies, groceries, tools, and gifts.
But when he stepped out, something confused him.
Two small bicycles leaned against the wall.
Two backpacks hung near the door.
Children’s drawings covered the window.
And he heard laughter.
When Margaret appeared, she hugged him—but stiffly.
Behind her, standing in the doorway, were the children.
“They belong to a friend who couldn’t raise them,” Margaret said quickly. “I’ve been taking care of them.”
Daniel accepted the explanation at first.
It was easier than questioning it.
But small details started to disturb him.
Lucas tilted his head exactly the way Daniel did when thinking.
Lily had the same temper he remembered having as a child.
One afternoon he found a birth certificate that had slipped from Lily’s notebook.
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