{"id":1704,"date":"2024-12-05T04:49:42","date_gmt":"2024-12-05T04:49:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/?p=1704"},"modified":"2024-12-05T04:49:44","modified_gmt":"2024-12-05T04:49:44","slug":"old-man-shuts-the-door-on-annoying-teen-but-a-hurricane-exposes-the-truth-about-her-story-of-the-day","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/archives\/1704","title":{"rendered":"Old Man Shuts the Door on Annoying Teen, but a Hurricane Exposes the Truth About Her \u2013 Story of the Day"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class='\"entry-header\"'>\n<p>When a grouchy old man slams the door on a persistent teen, he thinks he\u2019s rid of her for good. But when a hurricane traps them together, the storm outside reveals the truth about her shocking connection to his past.\n</p><div class='\"entry-content\"'>\n<div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank had lived alone for many years. The quiet suited him, and he\u2019d long accepted the absence of friends or family in his life. So, when he heard a knock at the door one Saturday morning, he was startled but more annoyed than curious.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/ImaAnor8gtULSFvE_c-s6HlhN6l0-sCHbcXFARwe_qE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzYyMzQzOTgyYjVmMzkzYTc2MjE5MjU3ZDkxZmJkZmI1NzgwNTdkOTllZGUyZmQ3MGVjNDU1Njk0MzcwZjA1OS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/362343982b5f393a76219257d91fbdfb578057d99ede2fd70ec455694370f059.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>With a heavy groan, he pushed himself out of his recliner. When he opened the door, he saw a teenage girl standing on the porch, no older than sixteen.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Before she could speak, Frank snapped, \u201cI don\u2019t want to buy anything, I don\u2019t want to join any church, I don\u2019t support homeless kids or kittens, and I\u2019m not interested in environmental issues.\u201d Without waiting for a response, he slammed the door shut.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/nduAjgb5YbqkokYv3Gq1LyFiKpeFxqzChgMtQ61jQXQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMWUzNTExYWE2ZGI0OTU0OGZhYTQyOTcxOWI0NWMzNzA4NDYyNWIwYTA0OTYzMjZmMjNmOTEzZmZjMWQxNzVjZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/1e3511aa6db49548faa429719b45c37084625b0a0496326f23f913ffc1d175ce.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He turned to leave but froze when the doorbell rang again. With a sigh, he shuffled back to his chair, grabbed the remote, and turned up the TV volume.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The weather report showed a hurricane warning for the city. Frank glanced at it briefly, then shook his head.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDoesn\u2019t matter to me,\u201d he mumbled. His basement was built to withstand anything.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/9--dEHRhP5_QfRzp4qsjzoJ4Yblh6E4-iGBvFlgPISQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNWU4ZDJhOGUyODU2Yzg0ZGM4YmMwNTM1YWQzMTgyNjg5MzhmYmQ4YjQ3YmQ0MjNhMjFkNjQzNmRhMmUzYzhiMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/5e8d2a8e2856c84dc8bc0535ad318268938fbd8b47bd423a21d6436da2e3c8b3.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The doorbell didn\u2019t stop. It kept ringing, over and over. Five minutes passed, then ten, then fifteen. Each ring grated on Frank\u2019s nerves. Finally, he stomped back to the door, muttering to himself. He flung it open with a scowl.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat?! What do you want?!\u201d he barked, his voice echoing down the quiet street.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The girl stood there, calm, her eyes fixed on him. \u201cYou\u2019re Frank, right? I need to talk to you,\u201d she said.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/rb9jwWFRV9XJId0h6fjeuJp_lx3beG3u6dEr1qrJ0Zg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDlkZjFmZjQ4NWE3OTE2YzUyZTE4YzFiMzc1ZTQxN2NjZTM3MDUyZTk1YTU3NDQ2NzJjZjFjODZkOTQ0ZmZjNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/d9df1ff485a7916c52e18c1b375e417cce37052e95a5744672cf1c86d944ffc5.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank narrowed his eyes. \u201cLet\u2019s say I am. Who are you, and why are you on my porch? Where are your parents?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy name is Zoe. My mom died recently. I don\u2019t have any parents now,\u201d she said, her voice steady.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI couldn\u2019t care less,\u201d Frank snapped. He grabbed the edge of the door and started to push it closed.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Before it could shut, Zoe pressed her hand against it. \u201cAren\u2019t you curious why I\u2019m here?\u201d she asked, her tone unwavering.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/Z6dRfEgUTIkErswSsH2mRIUuE0dwLVWnLfVtYkQClhs\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjkwOTA5MzljMzk0ODk1YTc3YmE1NTVkYzM4OTk3NWVlOGQ1NDA5YjMwODdiYTRkZmMwZTFmMWQzZTc1OTIzYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/b9090939c394895a77ba555dc389975ee8d5409b3087ba4dfc0e1f1d3e75923b.png?resize=735%2C1311&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"1311\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThe only thing I\u2019m curious about,\u201d Frank growled, \u201cis how long it\u2019ll take you to leave my property and never come back!\u201d He shoved her hand off the door and slammed it so hard the frame rattled.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The doorbell stopped. Frank peered through the curtains, checking the yard. It was empty.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>With a deep sigh, he turned away, feeling victorious. Little did he know, this was only the beginning of his nightmare.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/AKQo5uHhqdZIQe4gM_lOr3oSMG5qH7GTUaCKBCm6h0Y\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzE4OTU1ZmRkMGEyMmM2NjE2YmZhYWZhYzM0ZmFjYWM3Yjk0ZTAwNzk4OWZkODg0ZjdlZTBiOWZmMzdhNDBiZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/c18955fdd0a22c6616bfaafac34facac7b94e007989fd884f7ee0b9ff37a40be.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The next morning, Frank woke up, grumbling as he dragged himself to the front door to grab his newspaper.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His jaw dropped when he saw the state of his house. Smashed eggs dripped down the walls, their sticky residue glinting in the sunlight.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Large, crude words were scrawled across the paint in messy black letters, making his blood boil.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat in the world?!\u201d he shouted, looking around the street, but it was empty.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/FdKrFfWbZb9gSf7OK2RtsCipYh_mCuNeL_iTjPsJKz4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYmNlODE1NTNjZDJiNDE0OWM3Mjc0YzRjYWU5MzMyYTY3ZjA3NTg2Y2FiNDkyMmViNmE5YWM4M2Y5NGQzZGNkNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODk2JmhlaWdodD0xMzQ0.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/bce81553cd2b4149c7274c4cae9332a67f07586cab4922eb6a9ac83f94d3dcd5.png?resize=735%2C1103&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"1103\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Grinding his teeth, he stormed back inside, grabbed his cleaning supplies, and spent the entire day scrubbing.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His hands ached, his back throbbed, and he swore under his breath with every stroke.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>By evening, exhausted but relieved to see the walls clean, he stepped onto his porch with a cup of tea.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But his relief was short-lived. Garbage was scattered across his yard\u2014cans, old food, and torn papers littered the lawn.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/kBxbPaTEd8tfhxRGSUKkx59FvUnod226vRg4fhMox44\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODVlNTYzNWNiMzdiN2U2OTFmZWY5NTA5NzkzYWM3NWI4NGI2MzRmNzhhZGM3NTVjMmFhN2ZjZTA2Y2RlYjUzNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/85e5635cb37b7e691fef9509793ac75b84b634f78adc755c2aa7fce06cdeb535.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cStupid girl!\u201d he shouted at no one in particular, his voice echoing through the quiet neighborhood.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He stomped down the steps, grabbed some trash bags, and began cleaning. As he bent to pick up a rotten tomato, his eyes caught a note taped to his mailbox.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He yanked it off and read aloud, \u201cJust listen to me, and I\u2019ll stop bothering you. \u2014Zoe.\u201d At the bottom, scrawled in bold numbers, was a phone number.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank crumpled the note and hurled it into the trash.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/jZ_LNP7lbB1a8jCzsdL52aakp8Ns_XSRSBLFjCMa1TQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGNkZGNmNjk5MTRlZmIwM2I4NDQ2MWJjOWQ1MjhlYjM0MzM0MmQ3OTA4MTM5ZTdlNjQyNjQ5ZWIwMWNlNDAwNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/4cddcf69914efb03b84461bc9d528eb343342d7908139e7e642649eb01ce4005.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The next morning, loud shouting woke him. He looked outside to see a group of people waving signs.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWho the hell are you?!\u201d he yelled, opening the window.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWe\u2019re here for the environment! Thanks for letting us use your yard!\u201d a hippie-looking woman called.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Fuming, Frank grabbed a broom and chased them off. Once they were gone, he noticed a caricature of himself drawn on the driveway with the caption, \u201cI hate everyone.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/4_WJ7RUvUJ85u-gzmPyg8-wVqiAk7GqGQXAFxAOArgg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTNlMzU4NTIwNTRiZDM1MWQ5YzI0ZWVkOWE4OTRmYTA4YzNlZjQ0ZjNlMWIxNWVkNzgzZjRmNjgyMTMxYThiYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/e3e35852054bd351d9c24eed9a894fa08c3ef44f3e1b15ed783f4f682131a8bb.png?resize=735%2C1311&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"1311\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>On his front door was another note:\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201c<i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Just listen to me, or I\u2019ll come up with more ways to annoy you.\n\n<div>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>And again at the bottom was a phone number.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank stormed inside, slamming the door behind him. He grabbed the phone and dialed Zoe\u2019s number with shaking hands. \u201cCome to my house. Now,\u201d he barked and hung up before she could respond.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/jPOIYrqrTT9nIHu9aNKu7n3uQy2iqgE8ydOWBkOvXrg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNDVlYWM5MWQ1NGYyMDU2NzFiZWMwNDkzYmJmNmJhOGM3M2IwNDI1ZWI1NzZkZmM3ZmE4OTE3NDg4YTAxNDI0ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTM0NCZoZWlnaHQ9ODk2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/45eac91d54f205671bec0493bbf6ba8c73b0425eb576dfc7fa8917488a01424d.png?resize=735%2C490&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"490\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When Zoe arrived, her jaw dropped. Two police officers stood on the porch beside Frank, their expressions serious.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat the\u2014? Are you kidding me?!\u201d Zoe shouted, glaring at him.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank folded his arms and smirked. \u201cYou think you\u2019re so clever, don\u2019t you? Guess what? You\u2019re not.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The officers cuffed Zoe. \u201cYou old jerk!\u201d she yelled as they led her to the car. Frank watched, smug, believing this was the end of his troubles.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/QmoEKXrnspFEmJ8_28Z1u9-fbfzmVYQsmmh1L4sD2sU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODI1YThkMjRlMzdmMmY3MGE3ZjNjMzczYTQxZTQ5MWU1Y2JlMzhhYWUzMTBiNWQ1NDA2Y2NlNmVkYTZhNWI0NS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/825a8d24e37f2f70a7f3c373a41e491e5cbe38aae310b5d5406cce6eda6a5b45.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The next day, the city issued a hurricane warning. The winds howled, bending trees and tossing debris down the empty streets.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank looked out the window as he prepared to head for his basement. His eyes widened when he spotted Zoe outside, clutching her backpack and stumbling against the wind.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat are you doing out there?!\u201d Frank shouted, flinging open the door. The wind nearly tore it from his hand.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/x3rWuBmiI_h3q5WRKxhGZQ0MMbD2TCXcziP-X51bLks\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2JjNTc4YjEzOTdmMjE5MmRiNTdjZDMwYjk2OThlMzI2MDI1YmM0MzNkZTI2MWZhYzFkYjI2N2MwMDU4YzZmMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/cbc578b1397f2192db57cd30b9698e326025bc433de261fac1db267c0058c6f3.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Zoe turned, her hair whipping around her face. \u201cWhat does it look like?! I\u2019m looking for shelter!\u201d she yelled, her voice barely audible over the roar of the storm. \u201cI have nowhere else to go!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThen come inside!\u201d Frank barked, stepping onto the porch.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNo way!\u201d Zoe snapped. \u201cI\u2019d rather face this hurricane than go in your house!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank gritted his teeth. \u201cYou were desperate to talk to me yesterday. What changed now?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/6ouP51ayQHbrBc9rHy3gFrL0H7jmGf_JkyD_5yx0qXk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzhjZGQyODQyMmVjZjAwMGQ2OGE3NDg3ZGUxZjQ0NjcxZTVkMWUyYWZjNWRlNGNkMTg1ZjliNGRiMTg1MWFlYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/78cdd28422ecf000d68a7487de1f44671e5d1e2afc5de4cd185f9b4db1851aeb.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI realized you\u2019re a selfish, grumpy idiot!\u201d Zoe shot back.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank had enough. He stomped down the steps, grabbed her backpack, and hauled her toward the door.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cLet me go!\u201d Zoe screamed, twisting against his grip. \u201cI\u2019m not going with you! Let me go!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAre you out of your mind?!\u201d Frank bellowed, slamming the door behind them. \u201cStay out there, and you\u2019ll die!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/PuCngHoN-y_2yJ_umM2HNIKEMu74Yapm9HR_TAjRHLM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMGEwZjRjMjEyMDI1NmQxZTNjODBjZWUzMzgwZjFjYWY3MjIxZGM2NDU2NzFjYjYxMjBhODM4NDU3ZjAxMDM2MS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/0a0f4c2120256d1e3c80cee3380f1caf7221dc645671cb6120a838457f010361.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMaybe that\u2019s fine! I have nothing left anyway! \u201d Zoe yelled, her face red. \u201cAnd do you think your stupid house is some kind of fortress?!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy basement is fortified,\u201d Frank growled. \u201cIt\u2019s survived worse than this. Follow me.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Zoe glared at him but hesitated. After a moment, she sighed and trudged after him toward the basement.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The basement was surprisingly cozy. It looked like a small, well-used living room. A single bed sat tucked in one corner, with shelves of old books lining the walls.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/2DUU13r9JE7_sJ5nPbmJqbz-CnCX6ClH4n14zxdI5os\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTU2ZjY4MGQ1MDMxZTNlNTU5ODRkMTY4N2VkYmFjMGY1MDI2ODYzYjk0MDJmYzM4ZWJjNGNiOTM3NGFkZDU2ZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/e56f680d5031e3e55984d1687edbac0f5026863b9402fc38ebc4cb9374add56e.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>A pile of paintings leaned against the far side, their colors muted by age. Zoe glanced around, unimpressed, then dropped onto the couch with a loud sigh.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou wanted to say something? Now\u2019s your chance,\u201d Frank said, standing stiffly near the stairs.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNow you\u2019re ready to listen?\u201d Zoe asked, raising an eyebrow.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWe\u2019re stuck here for who knows how long. Might as well get it over with,\u201d Frank replied, leaning against a shelf and folding his arms.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/cnZtlht2V1XBT1yq_XDLAmrVhFCGIcR2Yeir-_IMoQw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDE1ODcwMDBmNjg5NDBlNDE2Nzk4MTEyNTY5NDkwODY3ZDY4YzQxNmQ4YjkxNGYzZjI4ZGE2MWJjNGZlMjc5Yi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/01587000f68940e416798112569490867d68c416d8b914f3f28da61bc4fe279b.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cFine,\u201d Zoe said. She reached into her backpack, pulled out some folded papers, and handed them to him.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank frowned as he took them. \u201cWhat\u2019s this?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy emancipation papers,\u201d Zoe said, her tone matter-of-fact.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank blinked. \u201cWhat?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s so I can live on my own,\u201d Zoe explained. \u201cWithout parents. Without guardians.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/O_sRe91O9Y3lUyngqa4_Yw8u-JJuXtzqFxVMe_MJvwk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzEzYjYxMzAzZGRiZTY4NTNlNDVlNTBiMmRlMDQ2MTE4MTVjMDZjOTYyYTQyN2M0ZWQ1ZDU1Y2JmMTUyZDQ2NC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjQwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTM0NQ.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/313b61303ddbe6853e45e50b2de04611815c06c962a427c4ed5d55cbf152d464.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHow old are you?\u201d Frank asked, squinting at the documents.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSixteen\u2026 almost,\u201d Zoe replied, her voice firm.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAnd why do you need my signature?\u201d Frank asked, looking at her sharply.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Zoe met his eyes without hesitation. \u201cBecause you\u2019re my only living relative. I\u2019m your granddaughter. Remember your wife? Your daughter?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank\u2019s face paled. \u201cThat\u2019s impossible.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/6TTsq3o7piaGHccm6L6tzZY-pCAuowBCx_PeDf5fsRw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjA0OGNmNTY0MTBjODY2ODU5Nzg0MmI4OTQ3M2VjNGU2ZWY5ZjdiMjQ4ZmU4OWI1NDgzZDkyY2YzZjU5MmQ2ZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6048cf56410c8668597842b89473ec4e6ef9f7b248fe89b5483d92cf3f592d6e.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s very possible,\u201d Zoe said with a cold laugh. \u201cSocial services gave me your address. When Grandma talked about you, I thought she was exaggerating. Now I see she didn\u2019t tell me half of it.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m not signing this. You\u2019re still a child. The system can take care of you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/qyL1STNUXtX_zvgtFAkXG6Xo2Vp937vZ_kSVw0RtdVM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzZiYThiYjVkOGUzYzIzZTdmMDNmYTM2MGEzYTM2M2I5ZGUyNTc3YTMzYzQ1YTE2MTgwNzRmMmM0MDllNDJhYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/76ba8bb5d8e3c23e7f03fa360a3a363b9de2577a33c45a1618074f2c409e42ac.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou\u2019re joking, right?\u201d Zoe snapped. \u201cYou were a terrible father and husband! You left Grandma and Mom to chase some fantasy about painting. Your art isn\u2019t even good\u2014I was better at five! And now, after all that, you won\u2019t even sign a piece of paper to help me?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank\u2019s hands clenched. \u201cIt was my dream to be an artist!\u201d he shouted.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt was my dream too!\u201d Zoe shot back. \u201cBut Grandma\u2019s gone. Mom\u2019s gone. And you\u2019re the only family I have. You\u2019re also the worst person I\u2019ve ever met!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/MjNOO42ZdBXfM0x0FNUlGoK3FUtqah2u9VXw9e2yzF0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDFiNjIyNzU0OWFlZGJiZWYyNDljYTAzYzRmZTkxYjQ2OWMwY2ZhNjAzNWE5MTYzNDkxYTdlNjcyOTVmNmM0Ny5wbmc_d2lkdGg9OTI4JmhlaWdodD0xMjMy.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/d1b6227549aedbbef249ca03c4fe91b469c0cfa6035a9163491a7e67295f6c47.png?resize=735%2C976&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"976\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>They sat in silence after that, the tension heavy in the room. Frank knew Zoe was right. He had been selfish. Back then, he had seen only his art, blind to everything else.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>After two hours, Frank finally spoke. \u201cDo you even have a place to stay?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m working on it,\u201d Zoe muttered. \u201cI\u2019ve got a job. I still have Mom\u2019s car. I can manage.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou should be in school, not figuring out how to survive,\u201d Frank said.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/tqjcJZo5ZQxWaGUIj8pCXRB5tHVCGwjyfYwJpvNHTzk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTY1YzViYjAxNzA3ZWMxNDU4ZWI2ZjgyZWVlMGNmZWRiZjBiMDdlMzJmMTc4ZDJhNzE3MmZjMTQwOTI5M2ViZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/e65c5bb01707ec1458eb6f82eee0cfedbf0b07e32f178d2a7172fc1409293ebe.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cLife doesn\u2019t work out the way we want,\u201d Zoe replied, her voice soft but firm.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>For the next few hours, Frank sat silently, watching Zoe sketch in her notebook. Her pencil moved with confidence, every stroke purposeful.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He hated to admit it, but her art was bold, creative, and alive. It was far better than anything he had ever painted.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The radio crackled to life, its monotone voice announcing the hurricane had passed. The storm was over.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/V9AIzc6TSWmbnK__Cb1ORatPqSCFqloAgSrIHTTPLw0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2E4MGViZThlYzI5ZGFjYzc0YjM1OTkzMzlhYjFlZmEyYmNjZjY1MGFmOWY5YmVlMWQwMDJjN2M4NzM2M2UyMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/ca80ebe8ec29dacc74b3599339ab1efa2bccf650af9f9bee1d002c7c87363e20.png?resize=735%2C735&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"735\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank stood, his joints stiff, and gestured toward the stairs. \u201cLet\u2019s go up,\u201d he said. Once upstairs, he glanced at Zoe and handed her the signed documents without a word.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou were right,\u201d he said, his voice low. \u201cI was a terrible husband. A lousy father too. I can\u2019t change any of that. But maybe I can help change someone\u2019s future.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Zoe stared at the papers for a moment, then slipped them into her backpack. \u201cThanks,\u201d she said quietly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frank looked at her and nodded. \u201cDon\u2019t stop painting. You\u2019ve got talent.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/4TJUfv99Ugkwyd8NsrJUQ15-UVTnGzD10zrM0BQk0Sg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMWRmYjk1ZDNkOGNlM2ZlY2EyOGI4ZDhiNDM1NjkxOTE0M2Y2ZGEyZDE2ODg3MjQ1MTdkNmUxYTZmMmEwYTBjMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjQwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTM0NQ.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/1dfb95d3d8ce3feca28b8d8b4356919143f6da2d1688724517d6e1a6f2a0a0c3.png?resize=735%2C412&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"412\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Zoe slung the bag over her shoulder. \u201cLife decided otherwise,\u201d she said, heading for the door.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou can stay here,\u201d Frank said suddenly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Zoe froze. \u201cWhat?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou can live here,\u201d Frank said. \u201cI can\u2019t undo my mistakes, but I also can\u2019t throw my own granddaughter out on the street.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDo you really want me to stay?\u201d Zoe asked.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/rA5AYB7VPRW1cR83s5yuaiU-Qrq3bcH7sUNU9G84oo8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzBlOGI3ZmUwZWQ2ZmY1YTYwMWQ4OWZhNzcwNmMxODFhZTM4ZDhhNTUwNjU0NWE2NmE5ODFjMjRjZTE2YjUyZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/i0.wp.com%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/c0e8b7fe0ed6ff5a601d89fa7706c181ae38d8a5506545a66a981c24ce16b52e.png?resize=735%2C1311&amp;ssl=1%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"735\"' height='\"1311\"' data-recalc-dims='\"1\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNot exactly,\u201d Frank admitted. \u201cBut I think we might both learn something.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Zoe smirked. \u201cFine. Thanks. But I\u2019m taking all your art supplies. I\u2019m way better than you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She turned toward the basement. Frank shook his head. \u201cStubborn and arrogant. You get that from me.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></header>