RUEPeople say when you meet your child, your heart will leap as if it knows you've met your own blood. I had heard that sentiment countless times. But as Henry ran up to me, his small arms wrapping around my legs, there was no such leap within me."Daddy!" His voice was filled with innocence and love, but I couldn't reciprocate it.We were in our mansion, surrounded by family—Leilani, his mother, my mother, sister, and grandfather. They were all here, brought together by my mother's invitation.As I stared down at Henry, who bore a striking resemblance to me, I felt a strange emptiness. Was it because of my problem with Tysha, or was it simply because he wasn't my biological son? The question lingered, casting a shadow over what should have been a moment of joy."Rue, hug your child," my mother's command cut through the air, but I remained stoic. The term "your child" felt foreign, unsettling even. I didn't like the implications it carried.Minutes passed, and still, I stood unmoving
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