Twenty-seven years ago, my brother left his newborn son on my doorstep, disappearing without a trace. I knew instantly it was him—Tommy, always running from his problems. The baby was my nephew, crying and shivering, alone in a basket. Carl and I knew we had to care for him, even though Carl was hesitant. We kept him, fed him, and raised him as our own.

Now, my nephew, Michael, has grown into a successful lawyer, his posture straight, his words carefully chosen. He shared stories about his work, but there was always a distance between us. Despite raising him, I could never feel the love I hoped for—he never called me “Mom,” just polite thanks but no affection.

Two days ago, Michael visited for dinner. Just as we were talking, there was a knock at the door. My heart stopped when I saw Tommy standing there—older, thinner, and worn by life. After 27 years, he had returned, blaming me for everything. “It’s all her fault!” he shouted at me, pointing.