Ken’s father had seen through him and trusted me instead. The money Ken abandoned? It was never his to take.
I kept the truth from Ken. I used the inheritance to repair the car, pay off the house, and start fresh. I took night classes, saved carefully, and finally breathed after years of struggle. Ken emailed once with three words: Can we talk. I never replied.
Now Quinn and I share laughter and warmth, filling our home with comfort. She said, “Daddy made me feel small.” I promised she’ll never shrink for love again. Ken thought he left me behind, but I moved forward — stronger than he’ll ever know.