“My 76-year-old grandfather would take me to the woods every day and force me to take off my clothes until I was almost half-naked. But one day, my mother secretly followed us and heard strange screams coming from the depths of the forest. When he came up and saw what we were really doing, his heart couldn’t stand it. He fell on his knees and burst into tears.

I continued quietly.

“Mom, Mary wanted to go back to the bench where you guys used to sit together. But the old trail was blocked.

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My grandfather pointed to the wooden step we had built.

“With the help of volunteer specialists, we build a safe step around here. Emily helped me measure the depth of the water, transport light materials and check the trail.

I looked at my mother.

“But I’ve always been afraid of running water. Every time I walked into the stream, I remembered the accident you told me about. I was very afraid that the same thing would happen to me.

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The tears began to slide down my cheeks.

I wanted to surprise you, Mom. But every time I approached the water, I would panic. Grandpa told me we could stop, but I wanted to finish what we started.

My grandfather lowered his head.

I made a mistake, Sarah. I didn't realize how hard it was for Emily to keep this secret. I should have talked to you earlier.

My mother watched us for a long time.

Then he slowly turned to Mary.

“Mary, I thought you hated me.

Mary took her hand.

“Sarah, I’ve spent my whole life waiting to hug you again. I never blamed you for anything.

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Hearing those words, my mother fell to her knees.

She stumbled her head over her friend’s lap and began to sob.

“Forgive me, I lost twenty-five years believing that I had ruined your life.

Mary was crying too.

You didn't ruin my life, Sarah. You were my best friend and you still are.

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My grandfather was standing next to me.

His eyes were also filled with tears.

That day we stayed in the woods for a long time.