I took on the insurance and maintenance costs myself. To me, it was a milestone, a way to celebrate her growing up and show I cared. I wanted her to be safe and happy.
I gave her the car and documents two days before her 17th birthday party. She took them and seemed happy, although she didn’t say thank you. I tried not to let the lack of gratitude sting.
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My wife was planning a birthday dinner for her since it was her last birthday with us before she left for college. It was supposed to be a special family moment.
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I thought maybe, after years of effort and small gestures like the car, she’d let me be part of it, even quietly. I wasn’t asking for a speech, just presence.