I was horrified to discover the same birthmark on my niece that I remembered seeing on my husband. But before jumping to any conclusions, I decided to do a secret DNA test that I knew would reveal the truth.
Under the cedar tree’s comfort, I relished the breeze with baby Sofia nestled in my arms. Despite being my sister-in-law Fiona’s child, my affection for her mirrored that of a mother’s love.
My husband, David, had painted a sad picture of his estranged, distant family, so Fiona and Sofia’s move to our neighborhood was a surprise. But their presence brought me a joy I hadn’t anticipated.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
As we enjoyed our picnic, Fiona’s light-hearted offer to take Sofia back was met with my playful head shake. “No. You should clean up a little first. We are fine here,” I insisted, holding her baby tighter.
Fiona’s laughter warmed my heart. Minutes later, the food had been laid out with proper covers, and Sofia was way more restless than she had previously been. I instantly knew what to do as I slowly and carefully placed her on the picnic rug and began taking off her clothes to change her diapers.
But with one look at her diapers, it was clear that they were still crystal clean. I was still attaching the diaper to Sofia’s waist when I noticed the birthmark on her back. For a few seconds, I froze with my eyes glued to the birthmark I felt very familiar with. One I could have sworn was also on my husband’s back.
A minute later, I had dressed baby Sofia and held her gently in my arms as I stared intently at her face. I frowned as my mind raced with possibilities, questioning the true relationship between David and Fiona.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
Fiona and David’s closeness now seemed a clue in a puzzle I hadn’t known I was assembling. But I pretended to be okay and continued our casual conversation and joyous picnic, choosing to observe before voicing my opinions.
In our quiet home later that night, I continued to treat David with the warmth I always had, but discovering the birthmark had planted suspicions in my mind. As I helped him dry off after his shower, something playful we did sometimes in the bathroom, I couldn’t help but fixate on the birthmark on his back.
It was too identical to Sofia’s. The similarity was undeniable, and it crushed me. I stopped helping him and heard his chuckle.
“You should have at least warned me that the kingly treatment was only for a few seconds,” David joked, unaware of the awful things running through my mind.
The possibility that David had lied to me all these years was too painful.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
Emerging from the bathroom, I decided to seek the truth through a DNA test between Sofia and David.
“I need to know if Fiona is his mistress,” I whispered before falling asleep.
***
During Fiona’s next visit, I feigned normalcy. I even ran to pick up the baby, feeling how her small weight and warmth cleared my mind.
“At this point, Sofia and I might as well move in,” Fiona laughed.
“Of course. We are all family,” I said, chuckling awkwardly. But luckily, she didn’t notice.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
When Fiona was distracted, I seized the opportunity to collect DNA samples – Sofia’s saliva and David’s hair, despite his confusion.
“Relax. I just helped you pull something out of your head,” I chided when he protested my pulling on his hair.
My resolve hardened as I dropped off the DNA samples, convinced more than ever of my course of action. I was allowed to have the results sent to me, and I eagerly agreed. The sooner, the better, I thought.
Fiona’s subsequent visits with Sofia only heightened my unease. Her attempts at conversation felt like mockery, fueling my anger and making her presence unbearable.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
One day, Fiona tried talking to me, and in order not to have to respond, I pretended to be sick as I lay in the sitting room watching TV. To my annoyance, David and Fiona soon joined me. Their casual banter grated on my fried nerves.
But their discussion about Sofia’s future words was the last straw.
“Sofia is going to be two years old soon. I wonder what her first words would be,” David said with a rare smile as he looked down at Sofia’s face. “Carmen, what do you think?”
“I don’t know. It could be poo-poo for all we know,” I snapped.
“I think it could be dada,” David confidently replied, pushing his chest out like a proud dad.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
That pushed me over the edge.
In a flash, I stood from the couch and accused them with my finger. “That’s enough! Tell me the truth, Sofia is your child!” I yelled. “Don’t even try to deny it. I saw the birthmark on your back and Sofia’s.”
My anger quickly evolved into sadness as water gathered in my eyes, making my voice weaker than I wanted. Their silence and shocked expressions confirmed my fears.
“Every time I try asking about Sofia’s father. I never get answers. Just tell me the truth!” I demanded, covering my face.
I expected them to speak or defend themselves, but they just sat there with shocked looks, almost like they were surprised I actually found out. I turned and fled outside.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
Driving away, the last thing I saw was David trying to get into his car and chase after me, only for Fiona to stop him.
Seeking refuge in a hotel, I hoped distance might offer clarity. But my stomach betrayed me. I threw up everything I had eaten in the hotel bathroom, sure it was a physical manifestation of the betrayal I felt.
I dragged my feet toward the bed to rest when a thought froze me in my spot. “No!” I exclaimed to myself, horrified. Could I be… pregnant?
The idea of sharing a child with a man who deceived me haunted me through the night.
Determined to know the truth, I visited a pharmacy for a pregnancy test the following morning. “I’d like a pregnancy kit,” I said, hoping for a quick transaction.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
Yet, the pharmacist’s inquiry and a helpful suggestion from another customer delayed me.
“It doesn’t matter. I’ll take any brand,” I quickly responded, eager to leave. Once back in my room, anxiety overwhelmed me as I awaited the test result. The appearance of two lines confirmed my fears—I was pregnant.
The reality of my situation, coupled with David’s constant calls, left me feeling trapped and alone. Running out of money and options, I decided to return home, confront David and Fiona, and retrieve my belongings.
Fiona greeted me at the door. “Carmen, I’m glad you’re back. There are so many things we—”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
But I brushed past her, indifferent to her attempts at explanation. I refused to listen. My mind was made up; I needed to leave. As I packed, David shouted, “Listen to me, Fiona is my sister!” But I barely registered it.
I shrugged. “Even if she is. It’s not unheard of,” I commented, focusing on my clothes.
“I swear to you, Fiona is my sister, and Sofia is my niece. Trust me!” he continued. “I don’t know why you would think Sofia is mine, but I can assure you she isn’t. I would never cheat on you.”
“If it looks like a rat and smells like one, what the hell am I supposed to call it?” I retorted, already finished with my bags, ready to leave this web of lies behind.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
David blocked my path. His desperation was evident. “If you don’t believe me, how about a DNA Test?” he suggested.
But I coldly revealed, “I already took one in secret.”
Fiona’s appearance at our bedroom doorway only made me angrier. “Don’t even bother saying anything. I always wondered who Sofia’s father was,” I accused. “I saw the birthmark! I KNOW THE TRUTH!”
My frustration and pain spilled over into more tears. I hated that I was crying in front of them again.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
But then, Fiona did something unexpected. She showed me her back, revealing the same birthmark. “I have the same birthmark,” she said, a revelation that stunned me. It was a family trait.
“I’m sorry for not explaining that Sofia’s father is a commissioned officer who was deployed to another country but died there,” Fiona added, her eyes turning somber. “He died just before Sofia was born, and I can’t help but hate him a little for leaving. And it makes me feel guilty.”
“I only treat Sofia like my own because Fiona wanted Sofia to have a close male figure in her life,” David explained.
My doubts persisted, though, as Fiona hadn’t attended David and I’s wedding.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
“Sofia was sick around our wedding, but I later asked Fiona to move closer to prevent her from being alone,” he continued. “It took a while, but we finally made it happen.”
They also said the rest of their family lived abroad, and those still in the country hated traveling unless it was a very special occasion. I looked at Fiona in shame and told her about the secret DNA test.
She calmly accepted it, “I don’t mind. As long as this misunderstanding is resolved.”
I decided we needed to go to the institution to get the results. I couldn’t wait for the delivery anymore. Leaving behind my luggage, I made us all get into my car and drive away.
***
A doctor led us to a room and showed us the results. Shockingly, the samples were a 100% match for paternity.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
“That’s impossible!” David exclaimed, gaping as I was. I quickly grabbed the documents, wanting to confirm it with my own eyes… and exhaled loudly, relieved.
There were two different names on the sheets. I think I heard everyone sighing as well. The doctor apologized and produced the correct sheets.
Relief washed over my husband as the accurate test confirmed he was not Sofia’s father. “It’s good to know that the first test was wrong,” he said, his laughter easing the tension.
“Even if the second test said that David was the father, I would have insisted that we do another one,” Fiona said, getting on her feet and showing her intention to leave.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
Back home, my apologies poured out.
“It’s my fault. I made you have doubts and didn’t clear all your suspicions even when you kept complaining about not meeting my family,” David said, shaking his head.
“We are family. I should have also told you about Sofia’s father,” Fiona added, moving closer to hug me tightly.
We stayed in that position for a while until we heard loud baby noises from Sofia, who was still in Fiona’s arms. I was beyond happy at realizing that my family was still intact, and they were even more pleased when I told them I was pregnant.
Months later, after delivering a baby boy named Zack, I was shocked to see the number of cars parked in front of our house as many people trooped in.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Unsplash
“I didn’t know your family members were this excited about a new baby,” I whispered in David’s ears as I held Zack, who was fast asleep in my arms.
David laughed and wrapped his arms around me, and with Fiona standing behind us holding Sofia, we got ready to meet the rest of the family.
Tell us what you think about this story, and share it with your friends. It might inspire them and brighten their day.
If you enjoyed this story, you might like this one about a grandfather who forbade everything from touching his old mattress, but his granddaughter found it later.
Nurse Attempts to Help an Ailing Elderly Man Reunite with His Long-Lost Love — Story of the Day
Night-shift nurse Alex finds purpose beyond routine when he learns of his elderly patient George’s single regret—a love lost at sea. Teaming up with his friend Kate, Alex embarks on a heartfelt search for George’s long-lost love, uncovering life’s hidden truths about timing, courage, and second chances.
The quiet night felt like a rare gift, though Alex wasn’t quite sure what to do with it. His shifts usually kept him running, but tonight the halls were hushed, the patients asleep, and his duties light.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
The dimly lit corridor stretched ahead as he texted his friend and roommate, Kate. She was his go-to for everything—from sharing funny moments to venting on tough days.
They’d been schoolmates once, but only last year, when they both responded to the same apartment listing, had they finally gotten to know each other. Living in neighboring units had transformed them from casual acquaintances into close friends.
Just as Alex was sending Kate a sticker of a yawning cat, a nurse approached him. “Alex, George is asking for you,” she said with a warm smile.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Thanks,” Alex replied, slipping his phone into his pocket and heading toward George’s room. George was 88 but brimming with energy, more vibrant than many half his age.
George also had a wealth of stories, having worked as a sailor in his youth. As Alex entered, he found the old man eagerly shuffling a deck of cards, his face lighting up at the sight of his visitor.
Alex pulled a chair close to George’s bed and sat down, eyeing the deck of cards in George’s hands. “Couldn’t find anyone to play with?” he asked, smiling.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Everyone turned me down. Can you believe it?” George replied, shaking his head with a grin.
“Well, it’s 2 a.m., so I get it,” Alex said, settling in. “Why don’t you try to get some sleep?”
George shook his head. “I just can’t fall asleep.”
“I could ask the doctor to prescribe something,” Alex offered.
George chuckled. “Alex, I’m 88. I’ve had more than enough sleep in my life.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Alex laughed and took the deck, shuffling it. He dealt the cards, and they played quietly for a while. Then, George laid down a card and glanced up, his expression shifting.
“Dr. Martinez told me I only have a few months left,” George said softly.
Alex’s heart sank. He saw patients face death often, but it was never easy, especially with George. “Oh…”
George smiled gently. “It’s okay. I’m ready. I’ve had a long, full life. No regrets—well, except one.” His voice drifted off, eyes distant.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“What’s that?” Alex asked, leaning forward.
“There was someone I loved. We met on a ship, but we had to say goodbye.”
Alex raised an eyebrow. “I thought women were bad luck on ships.”
George chuckled. “His name was David Smith.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“That’s…unexpected,” Alex said, smiling. “Did you ever try to find him?”
“No. It’s been too long. I doubt he remembers me,” George replied.
“You never know,” Alex said, just as George laid down his last card.
“Looks like you lost,” George announced, grinning with triumph.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Alex laughed, already reaching to shuffle the deck for another round.
When Alex got home in the morning, he found Kate leaning sleepily against the kitchen counter. She was still in her pajamas, sipping coffee slowly. Working from home meant she rarely rushed.
“Hey, how was your shift?” Kate asked, rubbing her eyes.
“George got some bad news,” Alex replied, setting his bag down. “He found out he only has a few months left.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Oh no, that’s so sad.” Kate’s face fell. “I like George.”
Alex nodded, knowing how much Kate cared. She’d met some of his patients before when she volunteered. George especially liked her and often teased Alex, asking why he hadn’t asked her out.
Alex usually brushed it off. He’d had a crush on Kate back in high school, but now they were just friends. Dating might make things complicated, especially since they were roommates.
“George told me his only regret is not being with his true love,” Alex said. “I want to find him. Will you help?”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Kate’s eyes lit up. “A love story? I’m in!” She poured herself more coffee with a grin.
In the days that followed, Alex and Kate worked together to find all the Davids with the last name Smith. After hours of searching, they managed to narrow it down to six possible matches.
“That’s still a long list,” Alex said, scanning the names.
“Are you kidding?” Kate replied, laughing. “When we started, it felt like there were a million Davids out there. Now we’re down to just six!”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“A million, huh?” Alex teased, raising an eyebrow.
“Well, close to that,” Kate said, chuckling. They shared a smile, enjoying the rare moment of progress.
“We can start visiting them on weekends,” Alex suggested. “It’ll be easier when I don’t have work.”
“Sounds good to me,” Kate agreed, nodding. Just then, her phone buzzed, and a wide smile spread across her face.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Did you win the lottery?” Alex asked, watching her reaction.
“No, it’s Troy. We met at a conference,” Kate explained. “He just asked me out. I think he likes me.”
Alex paused. “And do you like him?”
“Maybe,” Kate said, grinning as she walked to her room, phone in hand. Alex watched her go, feeling a strange pang he couldn’t explain.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
For the next two weeks, Alex and Kate met with four Davids, but none turned out to be George’s long-lost love.
David #1, a cheerful older man, was happily married with kids, grandkids, and even great-grandkids. David #2, a spry gentleman, was engaged to a woman three decades younger, a detail Kate and Alex found surprising.
When they tried to meet David #3, they discovered he had passed away years ago. Finally, David #4, who claimed he had sailed many seas, eventually admitted he’d never actually set foot on a ship.
After each visit, they sat with George, sharing each David’s story. He listened quietly, nodding along but showing no spark of recognition.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Just give it up. It’s hopeless,” George muttered, his voice tired.
“Nothing’s hopeless when it comes to love,” Kate replied firmly. “And we still have two Davids left. One of them has to be yours.”
George looked away, sighing. “What if it’s David #3—the one who’s already passed?” His cough grew rougher, a reminder of his weakening health.
“Come on, George, don’t be so pessimistic,” Alex said gently, patting his arm.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
The next week, Alex and Kate set off to meet David #5, a fisherman living by the docks.
“I have a good feeling about this one,” Kate said as they drove.
“Oddly, so do I,” Alex replied, smiling.
When they finally met David #5, Alex and Kate learned he had, in fact, been on the same ship as George at the same time.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Do you remember him?” Alex asked hopefully. “He was kind, maybe a bit of a pessimist, and he was really good at cards.”
Kate jumped in, adding, “Oh, and you were in love with him!”
David #5 looked at them, shaking his head with a slight smile. “Sorry, but no. Doesn’t ring a bell.”
Kate’s face fell. “Well, that’s disappointing.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Seeing their letdown, David #5 offered, “How about I treat you both to lunch for your trouble?”
Kate brightened. “I’d love that! I’m starving.”
“I know just the spot,” David #5 said, smiling as he led them out of his house.
As they walked, Alex noticed Kate pulling her sweater tighter, shivering a bit. He remembered how he’d reminded her to bring a warmer coat, but instead of saying anything, he slipped off his jacket and gently draped it over her shoulders. Out of the corner of his eye, Alex saw David #5 watching them, a small, knowing smile on his face.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“You two make a lovely couple,” David #5 said.
“Oh…no…no,” Alex stammered, his face turning a bit red.
“We’re just friends,” Alex and Kate replied at the same time, exchanging a quick, awkward glance.
After lunch with David #5, they headed home, feeling tired.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“It’s a shame he wasn’t the one,” Alex said. “I really thought he was.”
“Or maybe he just isn’t brave enough to say it,” Kate replied thoughtfully.
Alex headed out alone to meet David #6, feeling a bit strange without Kate by his side. She was out with Troy, so it was just him for this visit.
David #6 greeted Alex with a bleary gaze; it didn’t take long to realize the man struggled with alcohol and couldn’t remember much of anything, let alone George. As Alex was about to leave, his phone buzzed—a message from a nurse.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
George was in critical condition and might not have long. Without hesitation, Alex texted Kate: “David #6 is a no-go. Heading to the hospital; George is in bad shape.”
He didn’t expect a reply, knowing Kate was likely still on her date with Troy. But as he arrived at the hospital, he spotted her standing by the entrance, arms crossed and eyes searching for him.
“Kate?” he asked, surprised. “I thought you were out with Troy.”
She nodded, a soft, determined look in her eyes. “I was, but George needs us. I couldn’t stay away.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Together, they hurried down the quiet hospital hallways toward George’s room. Just outside, they spotted David #5, sitting with his head down, lost in thought. Kate stopped, placing a gentle hand on Alex’s arm.
“I think it’s best if you talk to him alone,” she whispered. “My excitement might make him back away again.”
Alex nodded, understanding. He approached David #5, who looked up with weary eyes as Alex sat beside him. David shifted uncomfortably.
“I can’t bring myself to go in there,” he confessed. “I thought I could do it, but… it’s hard.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“You’ve waited so long already,” Alex replied quietly. “Why not now? You had the chance to tell us before, but you held back.”
David sighed, looking at his hands. “I’ve spent so many years hiding this part of me. It’s not easy to change.”
“It’s better late than never,” Alex said gently. “He’s right there, on the other side of this door. Just a few steps away. Isn’t it worth taking that chance now?”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
After a long pause, David nodded and slowly stood, facing the door. Before he went in, he looked at Alex and nodded toward Kate, who stood watching, her eyes misty. “Take your own advice, Alex. You still have time.”
David slipped into the room, leaving Alex standing with Kate. Seeing her eyes filled with emotion, Alex realized the truth in David’s words. He walked over to her, his heart racing.
“Kate, I—” he began, but she stepped forward and kissed him. Surprised but relieved, Alex wrapped his arms around her, knowing that some things in life were worth the risk, no matter the complications.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Pexels
Tell us what you think about this story and share it with your friends. It might inspire them and brighten their day.
Leave a Reply