My heart seemed to stop.
“W-what…?”
“Your grandfather… was a millionaire.”
My mouth fell open. I clutched my face.
“Then why were we struggling so much back then? Why—”
She held my hand.
“Because he chose to spend his money on hospital bills and special therapy for your mother… while she was still alive. And when your parents passed away, whatever money he had left… he dedicated entirely to your future.”
My chest ached painfully.
“He sacrificed everything… for you,” she added.
Tears streamed down my face.
Then she handed me the envelope.
“Read it.”
When I opened it—an old photo fell out. It was of us, him hugging me when I was still little. And a letter, written in his familiar handwriting:
“Kiddo, if you’re reading this… I’m probably already in heaven.
Why did I hide the truth about the money? Because I didn’t want you to grow up depending on wealth. I wanted you to learn how to work hard and believe in yourself.
But now, all my savings… all my hard work… are yours.
Use them to reach your dreams.
And never forget—I am so, so proud of you, even when you get mad at me.
I love you more than life itself.
—Grandpa”
I broke down sobbing. I couldn’t stop.
I collapsed to my knees, completely drained. Only then did I fully realize… how deeply he loved me.
He didn’t want to spoil me—he wanted me to be strong.
A few days later, I visited his grave. I brought flowers—and that letter.
“Grandpa… I’m sorry for the times I got angry at you. Thank you. Thank you for everything. I won’t let your sacrifices go to waste.”
I hugged the headstone, wiping away my tears.
A cool breeze brushed against me. And it felt like I heard him chuckle.
“Oh dear, my favorite granddaughter is crying again.”
I smiled.
Now… I’m studying the course I’ve always dreamed of. It’s funny—I have a new phone now. But every time I look at it, I remember my old cracked one… and how he chose my needs over luxury.
And whenever I get tired of studying, I whisper into the air:
“This is for you, Grandpa.”
And in my heart… I’m sure he answers:
“I know. And I’m right here—you’re not alone.”