A Coastal Retreat
A cold breeze swept through the docks as Rowan maneuvered his little fishing boat into its slip. The late afternoon sun danced on the surface of the water, transforming it into a shimmering pool of molten gold. At 54, Rowan had dedicated much of his life to this place, grappling with ropes and sails, pulling in nets alongside the seabirds. That was the only life he had ever experienced. His wide-brimmed cap offered protection from the sun, yet it couldn’t conceal the deep lines of sorrow carved into his face. The villagers whispered that Rowan hadn’t really smiled in ages, not since Ariana—the love of his life—had left this world.
He threw a rope to Luis, an old buddy who operated the nearby boat, and then made his way onto the dock. The floorboards groaned softly with each step, and Rowan gave a courteous nod to a couple passing by, just back from their trip to get some fresh fish. The little one burst into laughter, excitedly pointing at Rowan’s nets. That little laugh struck a chord in Rowan’s heart; there was a time when he and Ariana had dreamed of having children—he had imagined a bustling home, filled with joyful squeals and the sound of tiny feet running around. But destiny had different ideas.
Ari’s passing from an unexpected illness four winters ago had left him feeling completely hollow. He now resided by himself in their quaint cottage, the very place where Ariana had filled the air with her melodies and adorned the space with her blooms. In the evenings, he sat in silence, allowing memories to drift around him. Her laughter, the soft reprimands when he neglected to wash the mud off his boots, the way she would glide her fingers over his rough palms. He missed it all with a deep intensity.
“Good evening, Rowan!”“A voice broke through his daydream.” Hattie, the shopkeeper’s wife, was making her way down the pier to take care of her own errands. “Did you catch anything interesting?””
“Good evening, Hattie,” he said, managing a faint smile. “A handful of rockfish and a few mackerel.” “That’s enough to keep me going.” She offered him a sympathetic nod, conveying that she recognized he was talking about more than just fish. It was clear to everyone that Rowan felt lonely.
He strolled down the path to his cottage, arms heavy with the day’s humble catch. The narrow path twisted its way through the scraggly pine trees, worn down by the relentless sea winds. Seabirds squawked above, battling against the wind. Ariana once mentioned the idea of planting more trees around the house, envisioning a shady orchard where they could unwind in their retirement. Retirement seemed like a big joke at this point.
“Hi, Rowan!”A teenage boy named Dario called out from the porch. “Mom mentioned that if you have some extra fish, she’d be willing to trade fresh eggs again?””
“That’s okay,” Rowan said. “I’ll leave some by your fence.” The old way of trading had worked out for him, particularly after Ariana was gone. He didn’t really care much for money, only needing it for the essentials.
The cottage came into view as I rounded a bend, sitting on a rocky ledge that offered a stunning view of the sea below. Ariana picked it for the view. Rowan found himself, from time to time, staring at the horizon, waiting for her to appear from the house. Yet, all he received in return was silence. With a heavy sigh, he made his way up the steps, trying to block out the emptiness that surrounded him from all sides.
He tossed his boots aside as he stepped through the door. The air was tinged with a subtle scent of salt and aged rope. Ariana’s photos adorned the mantel, accompanied by some dried flowers she had once cherished. He took a moment, as he frequently did, to softly greet her picture, picturing her in the afterlife gently urging him not to dwell on his thoughts so deeply.
A Surprising Scream
Once he finished cleaning the fish, Rowan sank into his well-loved armchair, cradling a steaming cup of tea. The only warmth in the house came from the crackling logs in the fireplace. Ariana’s crocheted blanket lay across the couch, a warm reminder of her presence. He took a sip of the tea, making an effort to keep his thoughts from drifting into regret.
Out of nowhere, a strange noise shattered the silence. A faint cry or whimper could be heard from outside, almost lost in the howling wind. Rowan tensed up. It seemed like it could be an animal, or perhaps a gull in distress. He turned his head, ears perked up, taking in the sounds around him. Another cry—this time clearer, unmistakably the sound of a baby wailing. A jolt of alarm surged through him.
He placed the mug down and rushed to the door. As he opened it, the chilly night air hit him square in the face. A different cry echoed from the shadows of the porch. With his heart racing, Rowan ventured outside and narrowed his eyes against the glow of the moon. By the doorframe, a basket rested, its blankets shifting gently within.
With her mind spinning, Rowan knelt down, her trembling fingers slipping beneath the blanket. Big, tearful eyes blinked up at him—a baby boy, perhaps just a few months old, crying out in distress. Rowan felt a tightness in his chest as he struggled to catch his breath. “Oh my God… where—who is that?”He glanced around, but the yard was empty, and the road beyond lay silent under the glow of the moon. No traces left behind, no one to be seen walking away. Only the baby and a crumpled note: “Please take him.” Care for him as if he were your own. Please, just don’t try to find me. Thanks a lot! Farewell.
The baby wriggled, letting out a louder cry in response to the cold air. Rowan’s thoughts spun in a chaotic dance. He looked at Ariana’s photo in the window, hoping she might appear to take charge, to reassure him that everything would be okay. But she was gone, leaving him to comfort this lonely child. With care, Rowan lifted the baby, feeling the little one’s warmth radiate through his worn sweater. The baby settled down, looking up at Rowan with big, teary eyes. In that moment, Rowan felt a stirring within him—a deep, paternal longing he had long buried alongside Ariana.
“Shh, little one,” he whispered, his voice quivering with feeling. “Everything is alright now.” “I’ve got you.” For the first time in years, he experienced a feeling of purpose that went beyond just fishing and surviving day to day. He brought the baby inside, holding him gently, as if he were a fragile piece of glass.
He searched through the closet for an old quilt that Ariana had stitched with delicate fish patterns, the very one that used to hang over their couch. As Rowan softly wrapped it around the baby, he couldn’t help but hear the boy’s hungry whines. “Okay, you need some milk or something,” he said quietly. Did he possess any? He seldom had fresh milk on hand. He remembered a can of condensed milk sitting in the pantry—left there for who knows how long. Would that work in a tight spot?
He heated some water on the stove, stirring in a little condensed milk, hoping it wouldn’t upset the baby’s stomach. “I hope this is okay,” he murmured, handing over the improvised formula in a tidy bottle he had saved from a neighbor’s baby shower gift. The baby latched on, drinking with enthusiasm. Rowan let out a sigh of relief. He was completely clueless about what he was doing, yet the baby appeared to be thankful.
“How should I address you?”“Rowan asked, her voice gentle.” Ariana had always found the name Thaddeus appealing; it had a powerful sound to it. Rowan murmured it softly, reflecting on the fact that Ariana had always wanted to name a son Thaddeus if they were to have a boy. “It’s Thaddeus,” Rowan announced. The baby blinked up at him, as if they were sharing a silent understanding. Rowan’s lips curled into a small grin. “It’s good to have you back, Thaddeus.”
He felt the heaviness of exhaustion, yet he wouldn’t take his eyes off the baby. He searched through the clutter for a basket to use as a bassinet, lining it with soft pillows. Rowan settled onto the couch, cradling the fussing baby against his chest. The moon shone brightly through the window, casting light on Ariana’s photograph. “I hope you’re up there, smiling,” Rowan whispered, his eyes glistening with tears. “I never found a reason to keep going after you were gone, but perhaps you gave me one tonight.”
Bringing up Thaddeus
As the weeks passed and turned into months, Rowan’s life changed dramatically. Early mornings have shifted away from just focusing on the tide schedules. Now, it was all about warming milk, changing diapers, and trying to figure out how to hold a squirmy baby while making cereal for himself. Neighbors were taken aback when they spotted Rowan walking through the village with a baby in their arms. They bombarded me with questions. He sidestepped the questions with half-truths: “I found him on my porch, and there was no one else around.” Absolutely, I’m looking after him.
Initially, there were whispers among some people that Rowan might have a hidden child. Some people were concerned that it might be an unlawful setup. However, the local authorities investigated the situation, found no clues regarding the mother, and determined there was no justification for taking Thaddeus away from Rowan. The officer who arrived at Rowan’s cottage, a friend named Mark, said softly, “We’ll keep our ears open.” “But if no one steps forward to claim him, we can assist you in formalizing guardianship.” Rowan felt a wave of relief wash over him, his heart racing.
Before long, the entire village embraced Thaddeus as Rowan’s son. They would spot them fishing side by side, with Thaddeus securely fastened to Rowan’s back in a cozy sling that Ariana had lovingly crocheted. They laughed as the baby squealed with delight at the catch of the day. Rowan discovered how to prepare baby food using fish and vegetables. Even though he was inexperienced, love led him at every turn.
Thaddeus became strong and radiant. Whenever Rowan shared stories about Ariana, his eyes sparkled with life, especially when he described her tending to the flower garden in the back. Thaddeus would waddle after the chickens, squealing with pure joy. Rowan’s cozy cottage was filled with laughter, radiating warmth and the magic of bedtime stories. Ariana’s presence hung in the air, yet the sadness seemed to fade, replaced by the warmth of a new love.
As Thaddeus transitioned from being a baby to a lively toddler, Rowan found a burst of energy within himself that he never realized was there. Even the arthritis in his hands felt more manageable, driven by the desire to hold Thaddeus, to teach him how to tie small knots or recognize different types of fish. When Thaddeus hit the age of 5, he was already mastering the art of casting a fishing line from the dock. “Is this how you want it, Dad?”“He’d ask, calling Rowan ‘Dad’ as effortlessly as one breathes.” Every time, Rowan felt a rush of joy in their heart.
Rowan’s dedication earned the admiration of many. People mentioned that Ariana would feel proud. The boy’s laughter filled the old cottage with warmth, and Rowan’s fishing business flourished, driven by a newfound sense of purpose. He shared bedtime stories with Thaddeus about Ariana, painting a picture of her gentle spirit. Thaddeus would occasionally wonder aloud if she was his mother up in heaven. Rowan, her voice thick with emotion, would say, “She would’ve loved you like her own, if she were here.” Thaddeus took that in with the innocent trust of a child.
Time passed by. Thaddeus grew from a curious child into a tall, athletic teenager, always sporting a quick grin and a deep passion for the sea. He dedicated his afternoons to assisting Rowan with net repairs, feeding the chickens, and weeding Ariana’s old garden. At 17, he was slender and strong-limbed, his unruly hair flopping into his eyes. He was a standout student, particularly in biology, with aspirations of becoming a marine researcher. Rowan experienced a pride so overwhelming that it occasionally frightened him. This was his son, his little miracle.
On a breezy afternoon, Thaddeus skipped up the path, waving a test paper in the air. “Hey Dad, you won’t believe this!” I scored full marks on my ocean ecosystems exam!Rowan gave him a high-five, brushing off the discomfort in his stiff knuckles. “You can’t be stopped, kiddo.” “Ariana always said we needed a smart mind in the family,” Thaddeus said with a grin, wiping the sweat from his brow.
The Uninvited Guest
On that very day, as father and son got ready to head out for a quick fishing trip, they were startled by the loud growl of a luxury car engine arriving close to their cottage. A shiny black sedan with darkened windows came to a stop on the dirt road outside, standing out sharply against the village’s worn-out pickups. Rowan felt a tight knot of worry in his stomach. It was a rare sight to see outsiders, especially arriving in such a flashy vehicle.
A tall man, impeccably dressed, made his way forward, treading lightly over the gravel in his polished leather shoes. He looked around at the modest cottage, the weathered boat, the young boy digging through a tackle box, and the older fisherman nearby. He strode ahead, determined and focused.
“Good afternoon,” he said, his voice sharp and carrying a refined accent. “My name is Basil.” “I need to talk to…” He glanced at a crumpled piece of paper. “…Rowan, regarding a certain ‘Thaddeus.’”
Rowan felt a sudden jolt in her chest. He moved in a bit closer to Thaddeus, a sense of protectiveness washing over him. “That’s who I am.” Thaddeus is my son. What is this all about?“
Basil cleared his throat, preparing to speak. “I am here on behalf of a certain affluent individual who is convinced that Thaddeus is his legitimate heir.”
Thaddeus blinked, a look of confusion crossing his face. “Heir?” What is he saying, Dad?”
“I— I have no idea,” Rowan stammered, a sense of dread twisting in his gut. Is this the side of the family from the mother? Is he a father? Or maybe something different? Basil went on, “My client has found out that this young man is biologically connected to him, likely from a relationship the boy’s mother had many years back.” It seems that the mother has left the baby on your doorstep. Now that the mother’s extended family knows about him, they’re eager to bring Thaddeus back to claim his rightful inheritance and connect him with his blood relatives.
Rowan felt a flush spread across their face. “We’re not interested in any inheritance.” Thaddeus is my son; I brought him up myself. I really love him. He’s not an object to be owned.
Basil let out a sigh as he fiddled with his fancy tie. “I get that this is a tough situation, but the legal aspects could be different.” If my client is the paternal grandfather, or if there’s another paternal figure involved, they could potentially have a case. Additionally, there’s money at stake—an estate substantial enough to secure Thaddeus’s future.
Thaddeus’s eyes widened as he glanced between Basil and Rowan. “Dad, I’m confused.” You are my father. That’s everything I have for now. Why do these people I don’t even know think they can just come in and take me away?”
Rowan placed a reassuring hand on his son’s shoulder. “They’re unable to.” I won’t allow that to happen.
Basil interrupted. “They have the potential to do so, provided the courts are in their favor.” The family is willing to offer a significant amount if you agree to give up guardianship. Thaddeus will be moved to a wealthier area, where he’ll have access to educational opportunities that you simply can’t offer. If you push back, they could take legal action, arguing that you found him unlawfully and that you lack the proper adoption documents.
Rowan looked down, a mix of anger and fear churning inside. He never went through the formal adoption process; life just allowed him to hold onto Thaddeus. Could these affluent outsiders take advantage of that? “I’ll fight,” Rowan said, his voice shaking, “I’ll go to the ends of the earth to keep my boy safe.”
Basil nodded with thin lips. “I guess that means we don’t have anything else to talk about for the moment.” “But you can expect a letter from our lawyers soon.” He gave Thaddeus a thoughtful look. “Listen, young man, you may believe that your father is everything you need, but my client is ready to present you with an entire empire, filled with countless privileges.” You might want to think about it if you’re smart.
Thaddeus stared straight into Basil’s eyes. “No empire in the world can replace Dad’s love.” The genuine emotion in his voice almost brought tears of pride to Rowan’s eyes.
Basil shrugged and walked back to the sedan. “We’ll see.” Good day!
Then he disappeared in a cloud of dust and exhaust. Thaddeus glanced at Rowan, his face drained of color. “What should we do, Dad?”“
Rowan took a deep breath, attempting to steady his pounding heart. “We remain steadfast. Don’t worry, son. No one is going to take you away. We’ve got this covered. “If we have to, we’ll get a lawyer.”
Yet deep down, he sensed the earth giving way beneath him. If the law required official adoption papers, which he didn’t possess, they could potentially separate Thaddeus from him. He felt fear eating away at him throughout the night. They attempted to fish, but their hearts just weren’t in it. Thaddeus pulled in the net with little enthusiasm, his eyes lost in thought.
The Fight in Court
A week later, a letter showed up via courier, printed on the official stationery of a prominent law firm from the city. Rowan was faced with the choice of either giving up custody willingly or getting ready for a paternity test. They said that the mother’s father, a rich magnate named Winston, had found out about Thaddeus’s existence. He planned to leave a substantial inheritance to his rightful heir, but only if the boy became part of the family. The letter warned that it could invalidate Rowan’s guardianship. They promised a hefty amount of money if Rowan agreed to go along without making a fuss.
Thaddeus read the letter, his lips curling in distaste. “Do they really believe they can just buy us off?””
Rowan’s anger ignited. “We’re not for sale,” he said with a fierce intensity. Yet, the fear remained. If Winston truly held the power they said he did, he would be able to sway the courts to his advantage. Rowan’s neighbor, Mariah, suggested a local attorney, prompting Rowan to gather his savings to hire her. The lawyer mentioned that without any official documents, the case would be quite challenging.
Weeks passed in a blur of chaos, with each new day bringing a heavy sense of unease. Thaddeus was consumed by the fear of losing it all: his home, the love of his father, and the life he held dear in the village. Rowan assured him every day, “I’ll never let them take you.” However, the attorney laid out the potential outcomes: If Winston could demonstrate that Thaddeus was biologically related, and the mother hadn’t legally transferred custody to Rowan, a judge might side with Winston. Alternatively, the judge could consider what’s best for Thaddeus, taking into account the stable and loving environment he has with Rowan. It was a close call.
As the court date drew near, Basil arrived with a sense of self-satisfied assurance. “We’ll see you in court,” he said, as he passed over additional documents. “You can’t battle fate.”
A Moment That Breaks Your Heart
The trial kicked off in the humble county courthouse. Winston walked in wearing a sharp black suit, his silver hair perfectly styled, radiating an undeniable sense of affluence and authority. Basil followed behind, balancing piles of briefs in his arms. Rowan donned his finest button-down and a pair of fraying slacks, with Thaddeus beside him in a borrowed dress shirt from a friend. The air was thick with the scent of aged wood and an underlying tension. The judge, an imposing older woman, took her place at the bench.
Winston’s lawyer pressed hard on Rowan’s absence of a formal adoption. They contended that the mother shouldn’t have left Thaddeus with just any fisherman, insisting that Winston was the true patriarch who could provide Thaddeus with a more promising future. Rowan’s lawyer presented evidence showing that Rowan had raised Thaddeus for 17 years in a nurturing environment, ensuring he received an education, love, and guidance. Neighbors shared their heartfelt testimonies, highlighting Rowan’s unwavering devotion. Winston’s side had money, an excellent legal team, and the powerful emotional impact of family connections.
Halfway through, Winston stepped up to the stand and said, “I only found out about my grandson a few months back.” My daughter, his mother, passed away not long ago. In a moment of desperation, she confessed that she left him on a doorstep. I can provide him with a wealth of opportunities. A fisherman stumbled upon him by mere coincidence. What reason is there to deny Thaddeus a genuine father figure and the inheritance that is rightfully his?”
With tears glistening in his eyes, Thaddeus leaned closer to Rowan and whispered, “He’s not my father.” He is my grandfather. “You are my father.” Rowan felt a tightness in his chest. But the question hung in the air: would the judge view it that way?
A DNA test was requested, and it confirmed that Thaddeus was indeed related to Winston through his mother. Winston was, in fact, Thaddeus’s grandfather from a biological standpoint. The mother’s identity was determined using incomplete records. Winston insisted that a life of luxury awaited Thaddeus if he would just join him at the city estate. Rowan’s side argued that it was cruel to forcibly uproot a 17-year-old from the only parent he had ever known.
As the recess bell rang, Winston made his way over to Rowan in the hallway, deliberately overlooking Thaddeus. “I can see that you’re a good man.” But do you really want him to miss out on advanced education and opportunities? He has the opportunity to attend a top university. Are you really going to give him that?”
Rowan, with a quiver in their voice, replied, “I can offer him love and acceptance.” Isn’t that sufficient? Shouldn’t Thaddeus be the one to make his own choices?”
Winston let out a snort. “He’s simply a boy.” He just can’t see the long-term advantages. My lawyers will make sure he gets what he deserves.
A Surprising Turn of Events
On the last day of testimony, the judge permitted Thaddeus to take the stand. With a flutter of nerves, he made his way to the stand, taking in the small crowd—Winston’s icy gaze and Rowan’s anxious look.
“I love my father,” Thaddeus started, his voice trembling. “He may not be related to me by blood, but he’s the one who nourished me, showed me how to fish, and held me close when I was unwell.” He has always made me feel valued and appreciated. In the meantime, my mother’s family has yet to show up. I appreciate that they might have good intentions, but I really don’t want to leave my dad. This is where I belong.
The courtroom fell silent. Winston’s lawyer attempted to claim that Thaddeus was under Rowan’s emotional influence. But Thaddeus shot back, “At 17, I understand my own feelings.” This isn’t about manipulation; it’s about love.
The judge stepped away to think, the air heavy with anticipation like a dense sea mist. Winston tapped his cane with a hint of impatience, while Basil lingered nearby, and Rowan sat with his face buried in his hands, lost in prayer. At last, the judge came back. The decision was thoughtful. She acknowledged Winston’s rightful connection through blood. Yet, she realized that taking Thaddeus away from Rowan would lead to lasting damage. She put a lot of emphasis on the idea that Thaddeus was almost an adult, capable of expressing his own preferences. She officially granted guardianship to Rowan, allowing Winston to stay in touch if Thaddeus wanted to explore a relationship or college opportunities. “The court will not separate an almost adult child from the only father he has known, unless there are compelling reasons,” the judge stated.
Rowan felt a wave of relief wash over them. He nearly dropped to his knees. Thaddeus hurried over and wrapped his arms around him tightly. Winston stood there, filled with anger, but the judge’s gavel brought the session to a close. While Basil attempted to comfort Winston, the elderly man shot a fierce glare at Rowan. “You’re going to regret this,” he said with a sneer. “He’s jeopardizing his future.”
Rowan and Winston shared a moment, their eyes meeting in a silent exchange. “His future is his choice,” he said softly. “I won’t get in the way if Thaddeus wants to get to know you.” But he’s not just a pawn you can purchase.
A Future of Reconciliation
As I stepped outside the courthouse, the sunlight hit me with an unexpected intensity. Thaddeus let out a breath, his tears shimmering. “Dad, we made it.” “They can’t take me away.” Rowan wrapped him in a tight hug, tears streaming down his face. “You’re my son, always.” They separated as Winston came closer, appearing more remorseful than he had earlier.
Winston cleared his throat, feeling Basil’s presence just behind him. “Thaddeus, I get where you’re coming from.” I really hope we can stay connected. I’m… not the monster you believe I am. Your mother was my sole daughter. I lost her way too soon. “Now I’ve found a piece of her in you,” he said, his voice trembling. Thaddeus glanced at Rowan, who gave a slight nod. Thaddeus then gave a nod to Winston. “I’ll consider it,” he said. “Just don’t push too hard, alright?”“
Winston nodded, trying to hold back his tears. Basil gently led him to the black sedan, and they drove off, leaving the father and son alone on the courthouse steps. A gentle breeze tousled their hair, bringing with it the promise of a new beginning. Rowan glanced over at Thaddeus. “So… do you have any interest in visiting that fancy estate one day?””
Thaddeus shrugged, his eyes reflecting a deep contemplation. “Perhaps someday, just to quench that curiosity.” Just not at this moment. At this moment, all I really want is to head home. Our boat is probably feeling a bit lonely.
Rowan chuckled, a wave of relief washing over him. “Alright, let’s head home.” Let’s swing by the diner on our way and indulge in a hearty celebratory meal. What do you think about that?”
“Deal, Dad,” Thaddeus said, his voice shaking with joy. They climbed into Rowan’s old pickup, feeling lighter in their hearts than they had in weeks. As they drove back, the gentle melodies from the radio filled the air. The ocean appeared before me, a glistening stretch of endless opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Looking to the Future
Life in the village returned to a simpler, sweeter rhythm after the legal turmoil passed. On certain evenings, Winston would call Thaddeus, engaging in polite conversation and sharing advice about colleges and various programs. Thaddeus, both careful and intrigued, was willing to seek some advice—he acknowledged Winston’s knowledge. He would check in with Rowan first to make sure there were no conflicts. Rowan always supported him. “If you want, you can learn from him.” “Always keep in mind where your heart truly lies.”
As time went by, Winston became more gentle, making occasional visits and staying at the local inn, slowly forming a fragile connection with his grandson. He came to understand that money alone couldn’t create a family connection—it needed to be built through effort. Thaddeus remained deeply rooted in Rowan’s home, yet his perception of Winston had shifted; he no longer saw him as a villain. They discovered a compromise, creating a way forward that recognized the importance of each other’s contributions.
On the day Thaddeus celebrated his 18th birthday, Winston made a generous offer to cover the costs of any college he decided to attend. Thaddeus looked to Rowan for some guidance. Rowan, fighting back tears, said, “Son, if that’s your dream, and Winston’s supporting it, then it’s a gift.” Don’t turn it away just because of pride. “Go chase your marine science dreams,” Thaddeus said, nodding as he wrapped his arms around him in a warm hug. “I’ll be back frequently,” he assured her. “The ocean will forever guide me back to where I belong.”
A new chapter was about to unfold. Thaddeus eventually headed off to college, thanks to Winston’s generous check, but he always made it a point to come back on weekends, during the summer, and for holidays. He never forgot the man who had saved him as a baby on that frigid winter night. Rowan, while longing for his son, was filled with a deep sense of pride. The cottage that used to feel empty without Ariana now thrived with cherished memories of a father’s love. Ariana seemed close, as if she were observing everything from a hidden spot, her heart full of approval.
On some chilly mornings, Rowan would find himself by the shore, watching the sunrise unfold, reflecting on the fear of that first night he discovered Thaddeus, the pain of nearly losing him, and the happiness that came with the court’s decision. He couldn’t help but be amazed at how fate had brought an abandoned baby to his doorstep, sparking a renewed sense of hope in his otherwise lonely existence. If Ariana were here, she’d probably say, “I told you so.” Miracles really do happen.
