I adopted twin baby girls I found wrapped in towels in a beach changing cubicle—on their 18th birthday, they handed me the same towels and whispered, “Dad… We owe you the truth.”

Chapter 3: Anna’s Sister

I read the line again.

My sister.

Anna had never told me she had a sister.

At least, not one who was alive.

She had mentioned a younger sister once, years before, then gone quiet when I asked more. I thought it was old family pain. Anna carried some sorrows gently, like things she did not want anyone else to touch.

The letter continued in her handwriting.

Her name is Lila. She is afraid, but she promised me. If something happens to me, she will take the girls somewhere you can find them.

The girls.

Not a daughter.

The girls.

I looked up at Emily and Grace.

They stood side by side, crying silently, their faces so familiar and suddenly so impossible.

“Keep reading,” Grace whispered.

I forced my eyes back to the paper.

I know they told you our baby died. Please don’t believe them until you see proof. I heard the doctor say twins. Daniel, there are two heartbeats.

The room went silent except for the sound of my own breathing.

Two heartbeats.

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