My heart sank as I scanned the crowd for my parents at my graduation because they were nowhere to be seen. When I discovered the reason behind their absence, a chilling realization set in: I couldn’t continue living in the shadows of their neglect. The choice I made next would change everything.
I’d been waiting for this day forever — graduation. Standing on that stage, clutching my diploma, I scanned the crowd, my eyes searching for my parents. Everyone else had their families cheering for them and snapping pictures, but my parents were nowhere to be seen. My heart sank. How could they not be here?
After the ceremony, I frantically dialed my mom’s number. She answered on the third ring.
“Mom? Where are you guys?” My voice trembled with frustration and worry.
“Sorry we didn’t come. You gotta forgive us. Hurry home,” she said before hanging up.
Anxiety gnawed at me. What could be so urgent that they’d miss my graduation?
The drive home felt like an eternity. I couldn’t shake off the sense of dread building in my chest.
Memories flooded my mind. All those times I’d strived to get their attention, only to be overshadowed by my younger brother, Miles. He’d always been the center of their universe, with his constant need for care and his endless misbehavior.
I burst through the front door, calling out, “Mom? Dad?”
No response. The house was eerily quiet. I noticed a note on the kitchen counter. My hands trembled as I unfolded it………..
