For my daughter Jean’s sixth birthday, her grandmother Jacqueline surprised her with a bright pink bicycle. It had streamers, daisies, and even a shiny bell — Jean was overjoyed. I appreciated the rare kind gesture from Jacqueline, though part of me sensed there might be a catch.
Just a few days later, Jacqueline returned unexpectedly and took the bike back. Her reason? My niece Mia had seen it, thrown a tantrum, and wanted the same. Instead of buying another, Jacqueline took Jean’s bike, saying, “She’s six, she won’t remember.” Watching Jean cry as her gift was taken away was heartbreaking.
