At ten years old, Melody’s world shattered in a single moment.
One minute, she was unpacking her school bag at home; the next, her parents were hurriedly packing a suitcase, promising a “fun visit” to her grandmother’s house. As her mother tied her ponytail, she asked with a bright smile, “You love staying at Gran’s, don’t you?” Melody nodded, unaware this wasn’t a short trip but a permanent farewell.
Her younger sister, Chloe, had recently begun gymnastics, and her coach declared her a prodigy—a future Olympic champion. Their parents were captivated. They uprooted their lives to chase Chloe’s dreams, leaving Melody behind as an afterthought. At first, they spun it as something noble. “You’re older, Melody,” they said, their smiles wide as though this sacrifice was an honor. “You’ll have so much fun with Gran!”
It wasn’t fun. It was abandonment.
Gran did her best, but her failing eyesight and age made it difficult to keep up. A few months later, Melody’s Aunt Lisa and Uncle Rob stepped in. Unable to have children of their own, they called Melody their “miracle.” Uncle Rob often joked, “Looks like the stork delivered you to the wrong address, Mel.” Slowly, Melody started to believe him. Aunt Lisa braided her hair every night and cheered at every school event, while Uncle Rob filled her days with wisdom, laughter, and surprise ice cream outings.
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