Charlie, a 15-year-old, trudged out of school, his backpack swinging. The parking lot hummed with students as his friend Tom mentioned a test. “Another one? I’m exhausted,” Charlie groaned. Tom teased him, but Charlie’s frustration grew when his mom’s car wasn’t there. “She’s late again,” he said, annoyed. Tom revealed his parents got him a car for his birthday, fueling Charlie’s envy. “A car? That’s awesome,” he said, feeling left out. Tom urged gratitude, but Charlie sulked as Tom left.
His mom, Laura, honked, and Charlie slid into her car, frowning. “Sorry I’m late,” she said. “You’re never on time,” he muttered. He mentioned Tom’s car, asking for one for his birthday. Laura explained she had a gift but couldn’t afford a car now. “In a few years? That’s so unfair,” Charlie snapped. Laura apologized, but he stared out the window, silent. At home, she left for errands, her calm response to their argument sparking Charlie’s suspicion. What was she hiding?
Restless, Charlie entered Laura’s room, opening her laptop. He found an email about a birthday delivery, then 14 more for future years. Digging deeper, he found a storage unit key. Heart racing, he went to the unit, unlocking it to reveal wrapped gifts with Laura’s notes. One said: “Happy 19th, my love. This watch is for your new adventures.” Another note broke his heart: “If you read this, I may be gone. My cancer can’t be treated, but these gifts carry my love for your birthdays.”
Tears fell as Charlie understood Laura’s plan to stay with him through gifts. He locked the unit, returning home, his heart heavy. Laura was reading when he walked in, eyes red. “What’s wrong?” she asked, alarmed. Charlie hugged her tightly. “I saw the storage unit. Why didn’t you tell me?” Laura teared up. “There’s no cure, honey.” He sobbed, “I don’t want gifts. I want you.” They held each other, Laura whispering, “I love you.” Charlie realized no car could compare to their time together, a lesson that reshaped his priorities.
