I Raised My Grandkids While Their Parents Worked — But One Day, They Vanished Without a Word

He’d been toying with the idea months ago, when work was rough. We’re not going anywhere. I swear.” Helen studied her face for a moment, then nodded slowly. Relief came quietly, loosening her shoulders.

“Good,” she said. “Because I can only nurse them back to health if I know where to find them.” Lisa let out a soft, tearful laugh, the first in weeks. “You’ll always know where to find us, Mom.” Helen smiled, small but real.