At the age of 10, a girl found herself living with her parents’ friends, Pete and May, on a Montana horse ranch as her parents pursued world travel. Initially feeling abandoned, she adjusted to her new life and formed a close bond with Pete and May, who became her surrogate parents. They taught her ranching skills and horseback riding, providing a loving and stable environment.

Seven years later, her parents, done with their travels, expressed a sudden desire to reunite. Distraught, the girl, now 17, resisted, feeling it was unfair after they had been absent for so long. She had built a life in Montana, cherished Pete and May as her parents, and didn’t want to abandon her horse.

Suspecting her parents’ motives, she sought advice online, with many suggesting they could be involved in illegal activities. Acknowledging her parents’ irresponsible history, the girl decided not to return, seeking Pete and May’s support.

With Pete’s help, she composed a heartfelt message to her parents, expressing her decision to stay with her chosen family. Readers empathized with her choice, urging her to follow her heart and prioritize the love and care she received from Pete and May over uncertain parental motives.