The wind was soft, but Jamie’s heart was pounding like a drum. His legs were tired from running, and his cheeks were wet with tears. Everything hurt—his chest, his head, even his tiny hands. Nothing made sense anymore.

He stood in the middle of the street, trembling, when Daniel appeared from around the corner. Jamie’s eyes widened. For a moment, he just stared at his father, unsure of what to say. Then the question fell from his lips like a stone sinking in water.

“Dad… did you already know that I’m Aunt Lena’s real child?”

Daniel froze.

He looked down at Jamie, confused. “What did you say?”

Jamie’s chin quivered....