Helen had been a foster parent for over ten years and had cared for many children, each with their own unique story. Many found their forever homes, but Mark, who was 12 years old, was still stuck.
Helen didn’t understand Mark’s quiet sadness and shyness. He didn’t hang out with the other kids like the others did. The chessboard she gave him helped him feel better. He would play against himself or sometimes Helen for hours on end.
Helen walked up to Mark one afternoon while he was playing a game and noticed how focused he was. His eyes were fixed on the board, and he quickly moved his hands. While they were playing, she joined him, and Mark won.
“Checkmate,” he said, his voice quiet but his eyes bright with happiness. Helen told him how talented he was, but Mark just shrugged and said it was easy to win because she always did the same things.
Helen told him in a soft voice to use kinder words, but Mark was too interested to listen. He looked into her eyes for a moment and asked, “Why?”
While they were still, Mark leaned in and spoke in a voice that was barely above a whisper. “Helen, can I ask you a favor?” Helen became more interested.
“What’s on your mind, Mark?” The way she asked was friendly and open. She had no idea that this moment would reveal a secret that would change their lives forever.
Helen’s unwavering love for Mark would soon show a surprise skill that would change his life and make their relationship stronger.
