She explained that Leo’s father was alive—but had abandoned them before Leo was born.

“I told everyone he di:ed because I was ashamed.”

Then Nora said something that broke my heart even more.

“I’m sick. The doctors say I don’t have much time left.”

She had recorded the video because she knew she might not live to see Leo grow up.

“If Uncle Ollie is loving you now, it means you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. Trust him, baby. Let him love you. He’s family. He’ll never leave you.”

The screen went dark.

I sat there crying.

When Leo woke up and saw the flash drive, panic flooded his face.

“Please don’t be mad. Please don’t send me away.”

“I found it two years ago,” Leo said through tears. “I watched the video at school. I was too scared to watch it at home.”

He buried his face in his hands.

“I saw everything Mom said. About my dad leaving. About not wanting me. And I got so scared that if you knew the truth… you’d think there was something wrong with me too.”

“I was so afraid you’d find it and send me away.”

I pulled him into my arms.

“Leo, baby, listen to me. Nothing your biological father did or didn’t do defines who you are.”

Amelia knelt beside us.

“There’s nothing wrong with you, sweetheart. You’re wanted and loved.”