My 13-year-old daughter, Sophie, has been missing for a week. She has blonde hair and freckles, and I know every parent says their child wouldn’t run away, but it’s true. We were very close, especially after her mother left. The thought of something bad happening to her is unbearable.

The police seemed helpless, and hope was fading until I spotted a homeless woman with Sophie’s backpack—her unique embroidered design gave it away. Desperate, I begged and offered money until I got it back, but it was empty. My heart sank, and in despair, I let it drop. That’s when a note fell out.

The two words scrawled on it struck me like lightning: “Grandma’s House.” I couldn’t believe it! How did she end up there? Her grandmother lived states away, a place Sophie rarely visited. I called her grandmother, my heart racing. When she confirmed Sophie was with her, relief mixed with frustration washed over me.

Later, I embraced Sophie, who was crying and apologizing. She explained feeling overwhelmed and needing space. We spent the night talking, reconnecting, and I promised to listen better. This experience reminded me of the importance of communication and trust in our relationship.