My mother-in-law, Jacqueline, took back the bicycle she gave my daughter for her birthday. Yes, you read that right—she stole from her own granddaughter, and the reason was infuriating.
Jean’s sixth birthday was perfect until Jacqueline showed up with a gorgeous pink bike. It was unexpected since she’d never been this generous, and Jean absolutely loved it. Jacqueline, however, had a hidden agenda. Five days later, she arrived at our house, insisted on taking the bike back, and told me it was because my niece, Mia, was upset she didn’t get one too. Apparently, Kate—her daughter—demanded Jacqueline get Mia the same bike, and since she couldn’t afford it, she decided to steal from Jean.
Jean cried as Jacqueline tried to take the bike, and I was livid. Jacqueline thought Jean wouldn’t remember, but she was wrong. I stepped aside, letting Jacqueline load the bike into her car, while Jean sobbed in my arms.
Later, Adam and I decided to get back at her. We planned to announce that we’d gotten her the lakeside cabin she’d always wanted—but then reveal that we were giving the money to Jean, for a new bike if someone ever took it away again. At dinner, we served the surprise: no cabin for Jacqueline. Instead, we told her she didn’t deserve it after stealing from a six-year-old.
The next morning, Jacqueline returned the bike without apology, and I made sure Jean knew it was hers to keep.
When Adam asked if Jacqueline had learned her lesson, I just smiled, watching Jean ride her bike. “Next time she gives a gift,” I said, “she’ll think twice before taking it back.”
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