The problem was never me either.

Patrick’s grief belonged to Patrick.

His dreams belonged to Patrick.

His reaction belonged to Patrick.

I could love him without accepting responsibility for his bitterness.

That understanding changed everything.

EPILOGUE — THE SON WHO WAS REAL

Years after Connor’s eighteenth birthday, I found one of his old letters while helping him organize boxes.

He had left it on the table.

I recognized the handwriting immediately.