Page 16 of Broken Secrets

Mr. Kline,

I’m writing because I need medical information for a heart condition I was recently diagnosed with. My mother is Alexis Kline, and according to my birth certificate, you’re listed as my father.

Delete again.

Hi Jeremy,

You don’t know me, but,

Delete. Delete. Delete.

How do you write an email to the father who’s never been a father? How do you explain eighteen years of absence in a few carefully crafted sentences?

My phone buzzes with a text from Derek.

DEREK

How’s the homework going? Need a study buddy?

Me

All good, thank you.

I lie, technically. I mean I am studying how to email my father. It’s not just school related.

This time, instead of trying to write the perfect email, I start typing.

Hi,

My name is Olivia Kline. I’m eighteen years old and I live in California. I found your business website online, and you’re my father. I know this is probably a shock. It’s been a shock for me too. I only recently learned your name, and I’m not sure what my mom has or hasn’t told you about me over the years.

I’m writing because I was recently referred to a cardiologist for some heart issues, and they need a complete family medical history. My mom doesn’t have information about your side of the family, so I’m hoping you might be able to help.

If you’re not comfortable with that, I understand. But if you are willing to share any information about heart conditions, high blood pressure, or other medical issues that run in your family, it would really help.

You can reach me at this email address if you want to respond.

Olivia

I read it over three times, then send. My phone immediately buzzes with a text from Derek.

Derek

Changed your mind about that study buddy?

Instead of texting back, I call him.

“Hey,” he says, and I can hear the smile in his voice. “What’s up?”

“I did something either really brave or really stupid.”

“What did you do?”

“I emailed Jeremy.”

There’s a pause. “Wow. How do you feel?”

“Terrified. Relieved. Like I might throw up.”