Thirteen years ago, a single photograph shifted the course of my life forever. In it, my newborn daughter Sophia held my finger tightly, unaware that her mother had passed away shortly after bringing her into the world. In that moment, I knew my life had changed. I hadn’t prepared to raise a child alone, yet every day since then, I embraced both roles—father and mother—pouring my heart into giving her a life filled with love, stability, and comfort.
I built my world around her needs, choosing not to date and placing my entire focus on being present. Sophia grew into a bright and thoughtful young girl, full of curiosity and warmth. As she entered her teenage years, she began seeing a boy from school named Maurizio. I assumed it was innocent and sweet—just the early steps of young friendship and feelings—until one afternoon when she accidentally left her phone at home and a message notification appeared.
