I never discovered what happened to Max’s family, nor why they left him tied on that lonely highway. But as time went on, I realized that Max had become more than a mystery to be solved. He was a reminder of resilience and trust, a bond formed in the most unexpected of circumstances. In taking him in, I had gained a loyal companion, and in return, given him a chance at a new beginning.

Though the envelope’s contents had initially made my heart stop, they ultimately led to an unexpected journey of companionship and hope, teaching me that sometimes, in the most deserted places, life has a way of bringing us exactly what we need.