CHAPTER 2: A NAME FROM THE PAST
A few days later, social workers began helping the children.
The toddler's name was Leo.
He barely remembered anything before living on the streets.
The older boy's name was Ethan.
He was only twelve years old.
When asked about his family, Ethan handed over a small metal necklace he had carried for years.
It was the only thing he owned.
Engraved on the back were two words:
"Ethan Carter."
The shelter staff searched missing-person records.
Days later, they discovered something unbelievable.
Eight years earlier, a young boy named Ethan Carter had disappeared during a highway accident involving his family.
Authorities had believed he had died.
But they were wrong.
Ethan had survived.
And somewhere out there, his grandfather was still searching for him.
When the old man arrived at the shelter, his hands trembled.
Tears filled his eyes.
"Ethan?" he whispered.
The boy froze.
The old man showed him photographs.
Birthday parties.
Family vacations.
Pictures Ethan had completely forgotten.
Slowly, memories began returning.
And for the first time in years, Ethan cried in the arms of someone who loved him.
Yet there was one thing he refused to do.
Leave Leo behind.
"If he can't come with me," Ethan said firmly, "then I'm staying here."
The room fell silent.
The old man looked at Leo.
May you like
Then he smiled through his tears.
"Then we'll take care of both of you."
