When I Died, My Father was with His Adopted Daughter

Dad and his colleagues were nervously discussing the case’s progress in the office.

I stood quietly nearby, listening to their conversation.

“The DNA results aren’t in yet, so we can’t confirm the victim’s identity,” one said.

“However, the coroner’s preliminary examination suggests the victim was between 20 and 21 years old, female,” Jerry added, his brow furrowed. “Given the scene, this case is likely a revenge killing.”

“Yes, looking at these wounds, it’s utterly inhumane. It seems like a cruel retaliation against the victim,” another colleague agreed.

Dad pondered for a moment. “I believe the perpetrator is a vicious criminal, possibly with a prior record.”

“Exactly! Anyone capable of such a thing is a damn beast!” Jerry exclaimed, slapping his thigh in agreement.

“We need to find clues quickly and identify the perpetrator,” Dad’s voice was filled with determination. “Let’s check inmates released in the last three months; we might find some leads.”

Listening to their discussion, I felt a wave of worry and unease. My memories weren’t fully restored, and I couldn’t recall the criminal’s appearance, but I vaguely remembered a birthmark on his hand.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t provide any leads now.

I observed Dad and his colleagues working overnight, sifting through case files and reviewing surveillance footage.

They analyzed the suspects’ movements again and again, carefully comparing the existing evidence.

Finally, before dawn, they identified three suspects.

All three fit the timeline, the location, and had no alibis.

Now they just needed a motive.

“All three of these guys you’ve arrested before,” Jerry frowned, concern in his voice. “Could it be revenge against you?”

Dad paused, deep in thought. “No, that’s unlikely.” His tone was firm, but a hint of unease flickered in his eyes.

“But how do you explain this? It can’t all be a coincidence! And the commonality among these three is that you personally arrested them – they have plenty of motive. Think carefully,” Jerry insisted.

“I had dinner with Ann last night,” Dad suddenly replied.

Jerry fell silent for a moment.

He asked tentatively, “What about your other daughter, Jenny? Maybe you should check with her.”

I watched as Dad’s expression twisted, as if he had touched a painful nerve.

His brow furrowed tightly, lips pressed together, a heavy atmosphere settling in the room.

“Jenny…” Dad’s voice was low and tinged with annoyance. “That little disaster is probably doing just fine.”

Jerry frowned slightly, trying to ease the tension. “Don’t be like this; every time you mention Jenny, your mood worsens. It wasn’t her fault.”

“Not her fault?” Dad’s voice sharpened suddenly. “I’ll tell you, she’s a walking disaster, bringing misfortune to everyone around her!”

A sharp pain shot through my heart, leaving me speechless.

Jerry sighed gently, attempting to lighten the mood. “Jenny is also your daughter; no one expected this tragedy.”

“Her mother died because of her!” Dad’s voice brimmed with anger and sorrow. “It was all smooth sailing when I had her sister. Why did everything go wrong with her?!”

Listening to Dad, I felt an endless guilt and sadness swell within me.

Yes, it was because of me that Mom died from excessive bleeding, and Dad lost the love of his life.

I knew that no matter how I explained, I couldn’t change his fixation.

Jerry looked at Dad, shaking his head in resignation.

He knew that further persuasion was futile; this had become a thorn in Dad’s heart.

He could only say softly, “Calm down for a moment, go change your clothes and rest.”

I watched as Dad silently left the room, his figure appearing lonely and burdened.

I wanted to reach out to comfort him but realized I could only pass my transparent hand through him.