The Hidden Daughter

She used to believe that if she excelled in school, they would finally acknowledge her.

So she did.

She became a consistent top student, pouring every ounce of herself into her studies. She hoped that if the day ever came when people learned who she really was, they would have nothing to say against her.

Since primary school, she had represented her school in journalism, debate, and quiz bees. She stayed active, collected medals, and built a reputation that was entirely her own.

She did it all for one reason.

To become someone they would finally be proud to call their daughter.

To become someone they would no longer have to hide.

But after that incident, she stopped hoping.

She stopped dreaming.

She stopped begging.

She realized that no matter how hard she tried, she would never be enough to change the truth.

She could graduate with the highest honors.

She could bring home every medal and every trophy.

She could become the best.

........But she would never be their first.

For them, it had always been the country first.

The people first.

Their names.

Their image.

Their legacy.

Never her.

And perhaps that was the cruelest truth she had ever learned.

No matter how brightly she shined, she would always remain

THE HIDDEN DAUGHTER