She Saw Me as Her Dad for Ten Years, Until One Message Changed Everything

We celebrated with cheap takeout and a loud movie she insisted we watch. Halfway through, she rested her head on my shoulder and whispered, “Thanks for never giving up on me.”

I told her the truth — the thought never once crossed my mind.

Here’s what I know now: biology makes you related. Showing up makes you a parent. Love is what makes a family.

And sometimes the most meaningful title in your life is the one a child chooses for you.