Emily peeked from the hallway, clutching her bear. “Don’t be mad, Daddy. Grandpa told me stories. He said you’re brave, and he’s proud of you.” Michael’s knees weakened. The word—Grandpa—landed like a blow. His daughter had known the man he had sworn never to see again.
Sarah wiped her tears. “I should have told you. But I was afraid—afraid you’d feel betrayed, afraid you’d hate me for letting him near. He swore he’d never force you to see him. He just wanted to help, to prove he isn’t the man you remember.”