Chapter 41

As I left the cemetery, I saw someone unexpected—my dad.

But thinking about it, it made sense.

Lucas must have gone to see him to know that it was my mom's camera.

So he also knew I was back.

He looked older.

Hunched over, shivering slightly in the wind.

He asked me, somewhat apologetically.

"Have you eaten?"

I got straight to the point.

"Tell me, why are you looking for me?"

He nervously rubbed his hands together.

"Could you... come home for a visit?"

"'You're grown up now, don't come back anymore.' Wasn't I following your instructions, staying away? Now, why do you want me to come home?"

"...Your sister is sick. Cancer."

I was momentarily shocked.

"I'm out of options... We've sold everything we could at home. You're her sister, can't you help her?"

His face was etched with worry.

"I know you resent me, but back then, I didn't want to drive you away...

"You're my daughter, how could I bear to do that? I had my reasons!"

"I know."

He stared at me blankly.