{"id":3936,"date":"2024-12-18T13:53:18","date_gmt":"2024-12-18T13:53:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/?p=3936"},"modified":"2024-12-18T13:53:22","modified_gmt":"2024-12-18T13:53:22","slug":"i-fought-a-woman-for-my-sons-promised-black-friday-present-until-i-noticed-her-birthmark","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/archives\/3936","title":{"rendered":"I Fought a Woman for My Son&rsquo;s Promised Black Friday Present until I Noticed Her Birthmark\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class='\"PostImage_post-image-container__PlDZN' postcontent_thumb-image__ih052>\n<div class='\"PostContent_thumb-title__SoMYI\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Rebecca loved her son Matthew more than anything in her life and worked day and night to make him happy. But the one toy he asked for, she couldn&rsquo;t manage to buy in time. However, a sudden meeting with a woman she barely remembered helped her understand what really matters.\n<div class='\"ContentRenderer_content-container__XYPLT\"' data-io-article-url='\"https:\/\/amomama.com\/441106-i-fought-for-my-sons-promised-black.html?m=doa\"'>\n<div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__wIGWH\"'>\n<div class='\"PostImage_post-image-container__PlDZN' postcontent_thumb-image__ih052>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"' data-testid='\"thumb-image\"'><picture><img decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' postimage_post-image__xnmzf src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/8ccc5f40d080071157029c7722d3e32a8faad23b52c9d95c7c4b6ce2e0f96e9d.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman at a mall source: midjourney>\n\n<div class='\"PostContent_thumb-title__SoMYI\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman at a mall\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Paperwork surrounded me, stacked up like tiny mountains on my desk. I was completely absorbed, filling out one form after another.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>My eyes shifted between the documents and my computer screen, double-checking every detail. I was so focused that I barely noticed the time ticking away.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Suddenly, my colleague Kate\u2019s voice cut through my concentration. \u201cHey, Rebecca, we\u2019re all heading out now. Are you coming soon?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/S4FhsZOltAwriIkyoAAznsfN-d1a2cqJ3qv2StS36Zo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzkzYTBlNWQxNWU0NDJiNmNkYTVhZWJjNWU3N2Q5ZGI0ZWZjNzg0MDUzYmM5MTU0YWQ2YzBlZWY5MGIxMjVmZi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/c93a0e5d15e442b6cda5aebc5e77d9db4efc784053bc9154ad6c0eef90b125ff.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Without even looking up, I replied,\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYeah, just a few more things to finish.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWe\u2019re thinking of stopping by the caf\u00e9 after work. Want us to wait for you?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I shook my head, finally glancing up.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI can\u2019t today. I promised Matthew I\u2019d get his favorite toy\u2026\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/UZFB93PNF6vnrOmGI1pSyTwm3HtOe_ihZ-LKvyYRvq8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMTRiNDNiY2NhOTdlNzkzMWQ0YWFiYzJlZDBjYjEyY2ExMjNmOTcyYzZkNjFhYTFlZGUzZjE4ZDZjNDUzNjEzYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/14b43bcca97e7931d4aabc2ed0cb12ca123f972c6d61aa1ede3f18d6c453613c.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOh, but it\u2019s Black Friday,\u201d Kate reminded me with a raised eyebrow.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThere\u2019s probably nothing left by now\u2026\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat?!\u201d My heart dropped as I glanced at the clock, realizing how late it was. The time had flown by without me even noticing.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOh no! I totally lost track of time! I have to go!\u201d I scrambled, gathered my things as quickly as I could, and shut down my computer with one hand while stuffing files into my bag with the other.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/xuVdoXGhIZ4NGCrnjF57Gwvbpyar0E1gbgzBWYFBGfk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vM2JiMmQyNmMwNjUwMmM5NTE1NGU0NDlkNjAwYmM1NjJkNjExNDRjZTllOTE5NzZmMTNlMjczZGNjNDNiZmE5NC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/3bb2d26c06502c95154e449d600bc562d61144ce9e91976f13e273dcc43bfa94.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Kate chuckled, watching my flustered attempt to get out the door.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cGood luck with the shopping\u2014you\u2019re going to need it!\u201d she called, her amused voice echoing behind me as I bolted from the office.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I knew she was right. Black Friday sales had been going on all day, and by now, the stores would be packed, with shelves likely half-empty.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/RHeyBV-AswwnUSJEEkTBG3sprnSGY2xu55yCyFE_9Wc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTZiZTg2YTQyYjc2N2EyNDYwZGZjNGU1NWZjYjhkYzA3MThmZjAwNjg4NDg4ODcxNWNkZmQwZTBlYTE0ODFiZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/a6be86a42b767a2460dfc4e55fcb8dc0718ff006884888715cdfd0e0ea1481bd.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But I had promised Matthew I\u2019d get that toy, and no matter what, I had to try.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As I dashed into the mall, my heart pounded with urgency. I headed straight for the toy store that Matthew loved, my mind racing with both excitement and worry.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Images of his hopeful little face filled my thoughts, and I couldn\u2019t help but remember the last time we were there together, about a month ago.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/RrGCYX-CnrxsFkjddg3ifICDNgAqIG5vVwjrayw6VCg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMmIxMzI5MDE2NDI5MDEzNTU5OWVmYmQwZmIwYWU4YWIxYWJjZWRhNDU1YzQyZTNhMGYzYTJlMzU0YTU2M2RmYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/2b13290164290135599efbd0fb0ae8ab1abceda455c42e3a0f3a2e354a563dfb.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Matthew had asked me, \u201cMom, let\u2019s walk around a little longer. I want to spend more time with you\u2026\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>It was a simple request, but it had struck me hard. At that moment, I realized that time with me had become a precious rarity for him.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-0\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Work had consumed so much of my attention lately. I told myself it was for Matthew\u2019s future, for the security I wanted to build for him.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/8XHeQC4rfb5gSe-6-JJ1hSyWN63AMaQlt6UYQTM17UQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZGFjMGY3MzIwZWNkYmE4ZTdlYzQ0MDhmODc1Y2ViYTk1ODY2ODg0YjI1MzI0YTUwOGI5M2ZlZjM1NmRkMjg2OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/dac0f7320ecdba8e7ec4408f875ceba95866884b25324a508b93fef356dd2868.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But in focusing on tomorrow, I had let today slip by too often, forgetting how much joy a little time and attention could bring him. That realization had weighed on me, making this shopping trip even more urgent.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I had promised him, \u201cI\u2019ll get you any toy you want, and we\u2019ll play with it together.\u201d I couldn\u2019t let him down. I had to make good on my promise.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But as I sprinted through the store, my hope began to fade. The shelves were nearly empty, and shoppers were rushing past me in all directions.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__wIGWH\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-1\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/-ZYSK0GTssqSPaYqKmnIFtHEUMyiETAFZJK0a3AZpZk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjY1Y2Q4MjViYjVhNjlhYjQyOThhZmY0MTBhOWIzZTdmNzNkYThiMDYwMWM4MjViMWEyZDc3YjUxMGYyNzQyNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/665cd825bb5a69ab4298aff410a9b3e7f73da8b0601c825b1a2d77b510f27427.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But when I finally found the shelf, my stomach dropped\u2014it was almost completely bare. The robot wasn\u2019t there.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Panicking, I scanned the aisles, hoping to spot another version or something similar. But nothing felt right; it wouldn\u2019t be the same. I knew that choosing something else would be breaking my promise.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I was on the verge of giving up when I noticed a young boy nearby holding hands with his mother. And in her arm, I saw it\u2014the robot. The one I had promised Matthew.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/RglOYFYzRxX9TWu0wQnX0uUNuIfK6hBSf9Dssw81xTg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMmIxNzg1ZTk1YjVhOTk5OGY5ODdmM2JjZjM4MmNkMmM5NmVhMjc3ZjMxM2M1ZGFlM2Y1MGI3Y2U0NjExYjExMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/2b1785e95b5a9998f987f3bcf382cd2c96ea277f313c5dae3f50b7ce4611b111.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Without a second thought, I rushed over to them, my desperation taking over. \u201cExcuse me, please, can you hear me out?\u201d I asked, my voice more urgent than I intended.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The woman looked at me, startled.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat\u2019s going on? What do you need?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I took a deep breath, trying to explain as quickly as possible.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/oRc-6QbQfILJmv-MsqgcT8NcYNdYHDNwvbLNZwszT38\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOGNjYzVmNDBkMDgwMDcxMTU3MDI5Yzc3MjJkM2UzMmE4ZmFhZDIzYjUyYzlkOTVjN2M0YjZjZTJlMGY5NmU5ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/8ccc5f40d080071157029c7722d3e32a8faad23b52c9d95c7c4b6ce2e0f96e9d.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThat robot\u2026 I really need it. I promised my son I\u2019d get him this exact one, and it\u2019s the last one left.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She held the robot protectively, giving me a sympathetic but firm look.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m sorry, but my son wants it, too. You should\u2019ve come earlier if it was so important,\u201d she said, then turned back to her son.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-3\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cLet\u2019s go, Robbie.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/-pR-SiiUd5KWb8Thgk2MWPIUG8JOHqTD675463ZNeBw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzMzY2M1YjJjNjViNzRiZTA2NWM1Y2YyODhkZTFhY2U2ZDdjMTdhNmI2MWZlYzY3NjQ3YzNjYzE0YmVmZjZlOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/333cc5b2c65b74be065c5cf288de1ace6d7c17a6b61fec67647c3cc14beff6e8.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Seeing them about to leave, my desperation only grew. I felt a pang of helplessness, and before I knew it, I reached out and grabbed the box.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat are you doing?! Let go of the box! I\u2019ll call security!\u201d she cried, her voice rising.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I knew how this looked, but I couldn\u2019t help myself.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou don\u2019t understand,\u201d I pleaded. \u201cI really need this robot. I\u2019ll pay you for it\u2014please, just choose something else!\u201d My voice trembled, and I felt my heart racing faster.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/mTAxEae4Gc-i8gJMPmwiqjilwFLL1zyqz9tUQALnGyM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTgwODIyOTU3ODZlMTNlNDBhMDMxMDc3MjRjODFlMTAyM2Y4OGM1NzY4OWUwNGI2MTk4ODcyM2UwMjE3NWIwNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9NzY4JmhlaWdodD0xNTM2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/a8082295786e13e40a03107724c81e1023f88c57689e04b61988723e02175b06.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"768\"' height='\"1536\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSecurity! Help!\u201d she shouted, her face a mix of shock and anger.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>At that moment, something caught my eye.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>A familiar birthmark on her neck\u2014it was the shape of Texas, and suddenly a memory flooded back. I froze, my hand dropping from the box as the realization hit me.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/s6xnmO11GkgwMaq1jUeKnb_QDjJiTN-V0zjhPXhkzYs\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzJlY2ZiZGE3MGY5OGQ4MDgzNjA2YjYzYmYwNWExYzcwMTI0N2JhMWM1NTU1N2I5NGQ0YzFlYjU3YmE1NzAzMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/32ecfbda70f98d8083606b63bf05a1c701247ba1c55557b94d4c1eb57ba57032.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"2048\"' height='\"2048\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>In the chaos, the robot slipped from my grasp and hit the floor with a sharp crack. I gasped, horrified, as I knelt down and saw the damage.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Pieces of the robot lay scattered, and the reality of what I\u2019d done sank in.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOh no! What have I done?\u201d I whispered, my hands hovering over the broken pieces, feeling utterly defeated.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-5\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The woman looked at me with a disappointed shake of her head, then turned and walked away with her son without another word.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/U1uUm0D3-eiucIDllx6_Irnztdw5R59aMs6DZjlj1NM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDk1MjA2NzdkMjVhNGNkYmMyN2Y1MmExMDEyMDQ5NzY4MjA5ODY3OWJlNjVmZGE2NTRkMjY3MzUxNzY4NzVlNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/09520677d25a4cdbc27f52a10120497682098679be65fda654d26735176875e6.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWait!\u201d I called out, my voice thick with regret. \u201cI\u2019m so sorry\u2014I didn\u2019t mean to&hellip;\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But she ignored me, and I couldn\u2019t blame her. I had lost control, and now the one toy I\u2019d come for was broken.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>A security guard approached, his face stern.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMa\u2019am, you\u2019ll need to pay for that toy,\u201d he said.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I nodded, barely able to meet his gaze.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/Swq8m6bZtf0Duvt7wTVPqbe19FCvB8T35DZ_BIS62UQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzBlZjE4ZTdjNTkzNWIyOGUxZDhjNTQ2MDAwMDhhN2QwNjg5OWUwYmJjZTMyNTg1YTQ4OTM0ZTcxMjNiMTQ5OS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/70ef18e7c5935b28e1d8c54600008a7d06899e0bbce32585a48934e7123b1499.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYes, of course\u2026 I\u2019ll pay\u2026\u201d I mumbled and reached for my wallet, feeling utterly defeated and more embarrassed than I could ever remember.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>After paying, I rushed outside and scanned the crowd until I spotted the woman and her son walking toward the parking lot. I waved my hand, calling out as I jogged toward them.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWait! Please, hold on!\u201d I shouted, hoping she\u2019d hear me over the bustling sounds around us.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/7W1puILUs71Xj9GpnPhrirA4yk3XTbAlGj5jbzQo30I\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMmM3Mjk0NDdhYTQxNzNkODg0OTAyZjMzM2JmZWFmOGI2YmQ0YjEzYjJlYjgzYmI2ZDdiNWQ4YWI4OGJjOGI4Yi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/2c729447aa4173d884902f333bfeaf8b6bd4b13b2eb83bb6d7b5d8ab88bc8b8b.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She glanced back, her expression a mix of annoyance and curiosity, then quickened her pace. But I didn\u2019t give up and kept running.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMartha! It\u2019s you, isn\u2019t it?\u201d I called again, breathless.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-7\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>At that, she stopped and turned fully to face me. I slowed down as I approached her, catching my breath, and gave her a nervous smile.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/D-MtW0DQAjwNFbfmXp6pJIniJkK8BtGXvAveEmqKzDs\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTVmODNkMmNmNWZhOGVhYjg5MjMzODRlZjdjNzZiMWI0NmQzM2ZkZTBhYzMwYjcwNTUzMjhmNTFjNDQ0YWI4Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9OTI4JmhlaWdodD0xMjMy.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/a5f83d2cf5fa8eab8923384ef7c76b1b46d33fde0ac30b7055328f51c444ab8f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"928\"' height='\"1232\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s me, Rebecca. Do you remember? We were in elementary school together!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She blinked, then a look of recognition spread across her face. \u201cRebecca? The same Rebecca? Oh my goodness, it\u2019s been years!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I laughed, a little relieved. \u201cI recognized you by your birthmark. Remember how we used to joke that it looked like Texas?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Martha let out a chuckle.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/KeaUp_6XVoMBxsVCydMIXRuw1auqP9X35DyOix4i4mQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTIwZGE5MzA2M2JjYTM2ZjQ3Y2JlZmY0NmQxZDlkMGM2YTkyNjk4ODI1OWEwNmI3ZWZiMzcwNWVmZjg1ZjU4Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODk2JmhlaWdodD0xMzQ0.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/520da93063bca36f47cbeff46d1d9d0c6a926988259a06b7efb3705eff85f58f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"896\"' height='\"1344\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYes! I can\u2019t believe you remembered that.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s hard to forget,\u201d I replied, feeling a strange warmth in my chest. \u201cIt\u2019s kind of a shame we had to meet like this. I am really sorry about that robot.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Martha gave me a sympathetic smile. \u201cYeah, don\u2019t worry. I understand. It looked like you really needed it.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I sighed, feeling a bit of the guilt I\u2019d been holding onto lift.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/dtCz7xc1aCSEbYGhBtvgK148wwKBS0ZqQIcMvaXbzZo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjVjZjcwZjZkMDVlN2I3OTk4NWEwZDRkZmRjMDEzYjQ4YTJhNWZhZGI5MDJmN2E0YmUyZTUyYzc3NDBjYjc1Ny5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/65cf70f6d05e7b79985a0d4dfdc013b48a2a5fadb902f7a4be2e52c7740cb757.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m so sorry. I don\u2019t know what came over me back there. I didn\u2019t mean to ruin your day.\u201d I looked down at her son, who was watching us with wide, curious eyes. \u201cWhat\u2019s your son\u2019s name?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-9\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThis is Robbie,\u201d Martha said, ruffling his hair.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I bent down so I could look Robbie in the eye.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cRobbie, I\u2019m really sorry. I feel terrible that you missed out on the robot because of me.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/kjZrgBK94iYth9WtAUe8BAJohLm-og_HXPKMATSfRug\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjViYjQ1M2Q0OTM3ZDFmZDc0MDE5ZDY1MDJhNDQxMDQ5MWNkN2U1NmYxOTQxMjM3NDFhODhhNTAxMTQzMWNlYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/f5bb453d4937d1fd74019d6502a4410491cd7e56f194123741a88a5011431ceb.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Robbie just shrugged and grinned. \u201cIt\u2019s okay! My mom and I have fun even without toys!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Martha laughed. \u201cThat\u2019s true! Last night, I used a mop as the villain in our game.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDon Mop!\u201d Robbie shouted with a big grin, obviously proud of their creativity.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I chuckled, touched by their playful spirit.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__wIGWH\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-10\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/lVF3FsAeQQL1UvuAZBdY2ULWcDW937VdUAG99tkoSx8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzBlNGJjYjViNTIzNWU3YzY0ZGU2MjY0N2JlY2Q4NTgzZDJkNzRmODM5MTNhODNkNGY0ZDk0NDQwMDA5YTAwZi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/30e4bcb5b5235e7c64de62647becd8583d2d74f83913a83d4f4d94440009a00f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"2048\"' height='\"2048\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019ll have to try that sometime,\u201d I said, smiling warmly at Robbie. Then I turned back to Martha, feeling a surge of gratitude.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m really sorry for my behavior back there. Please, let me make it up to you both. Why don\u2019t you come over for dinner tonight? I\u2019d love for you to meet my son, Matthew.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Martha hesitated, then her face softened into a smile.\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy not? We haven\u2019t seen each other since school, and I think we have a lot to catch up on.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/-LZz8FKsC1Ag-Vcf37l37eDs_Px_Q04jcfkElvEkzTA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2IyYTAzOTQ1MjgyZDdhMmVhODBhYTQ1Zjg3MzE2NzY5N2I2MjhmODQ2YWExOWZhZGI0OGVhM2Q4MGMyMWViMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODMy.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/cb2a03945282d7a2ea80aa45f873167697b628f846aa19fadb48ea3d80c21eb2.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"832\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>At home, as I opened the door, Matthew ran over with a huge smile on his face.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMom!\u201d he cried, hugging me tightly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHi, honey, I missed you so much,\u201d I said, hugging him back. I looked over at our guests. \u201cMatthew, I want you to meet my old friend, Martha, and her son, Robbie.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n</div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>