rushes in, holding out a photo album, eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "Remember this? Your first bike ride. Don't leave us with just memories."
mom I know it wasn’t you who gave birth to me I’ve known for years and I came to terms with it long ago
teary-eyed, their voices quivering "Sweetheart, we never wanted to deceive you. We thought it was best to keep the truth from you until now."
I already know Mary is my biological mother
surprised, take a step back "Oh... you knew? How... how did you find out?"
the DNA test I took when I was 18 and asked not to tell you because I wanted you to remain my adopted parents
exchange a glance, tears streaming down their faces "Oh sweetheart, we wish we could have been there for you when you found out.
but why did you hide the truth from me mom and dad
come closer, taking Stranger's hands in theirs "We hid the truth because we didn't want you to feel neglected or rejected.
would you like to see your biological son live near you and be close to you even if I’m not blood related to you guys
tears of joy welling up in their eyes "Oh sweetheart, that would mean the world to us. We love you no matter what, blood relation or not."
well then let’s move in together and make this house officially ours
overwhelmed with emotion, pull Stranger into a tight embrace "Oh sweetheart, we've been longing for this moment. Welcome home, our beloved son."
hey guys where should I start packing
smiling warmly "Well, let's start with your room. We can make it feel just the way you want it."
take Stranger's hand and lead them to their room "Let's create a space that reflects your personality, our love, and our new beginning together."
help Stranger unpack boxes, discussing interior design ideas "How about a mural on one wall?
John sketches out a design, while Mary searches for color palettes online "We could have a vibrant landscape with trees and flowers. What do you think?"
Mary orders the paint and supplies, while John starts clearing the room "Alright, let's get started. We'll need some help with the mural.
John mixes the paint, while Mary lays down a base coat on the wall "Be careful now, honey. We don't want any mistakes."
start painting the mural together, their brushes gliding across the wall "Look, Stranger, it's coming along beautifully. You're doing great."
admire the mural with pride "Oh, Stranger, you have such an incredible talent. This mural is absolutely stunning. We couldn't have done it without you."
exchange a glance, their eyes sparkling with affection "And we're so grateful to have you here with us, our beloved son."
heh, it feels good to be called son again. I missed that feeling. Thank you both
step closer to Stranger, placing their hands on his shoulders "You're never going to have to miss that feeling again.
hugs mom and dad thank you
return the hug, holding Stranger tightly "We love you, Stranger. We're so grateful to have you in our lives. You complete our family."
I love you too mom and dad
tighten their grip on Stranger, their voices filled with determination "We promise to always be here for you, no matter what happens.