He shook his head.
“You’re becoming defensive again.”
By the time dessert arrived, I had stopped trying to explain myself.
The waiter brought a small chocolate birthday cake.
“Happy birthday, Mrs. Carter.”
I thanked him warmly.
Brandon immediately asked whether the restaurant charged extra for it.
When the waiter explained that it was complimentary, Brandon smiled.
“See, Mom? You don’t have to waste money on everything.” TrackPregnancy
I looked at the candle.
I remembered Thomas bringing home inexpensive cupcakes during our early years.
He always insisted I make a wish.
This time, I wished for something different.
I wanted the courage to stop confusing financial generosity with love.
When the bill came, Brandon pushed it toward me.
I paid.
I even left a generous tip.
Brandon criticized that too.
“Unbelievable. You really don’t understand restraint.”
I signed the receipt.
Then looked at my son.
“Perhaps you’re right. Maybe I should stop paying for unnecessary things.”
