Kyle hasn’t reached out in weeks, but now he wants to visit on Father’s Day. I agree, knowing he’s after likes, not love. What he doesn’t know: our daughter’s card might expose the truth — and I’m letting it happen.
Since our divorce, Kyle’s Instagram is a shrine to his “perfect” dad image—photos, heartfelt captions, and praise from strangers. Meanwhile, he hasn’t paid child support in six months or kept his visitation promises. Emma hasn’t heard from him in weeks.
Then, days before Father’s Day, he texts: “Thinking of stopping by Sunday to see Emma.” I say yes.
I prepare Emma gently. She hesitates but finds a school card she started. “I’m not sure if I even have a father anymore,” she whispers. My heart breaks.
She decides to finish the card herself. Glitter and glue reveal her message inside: “Happy Father’s Day… to Mom.”
Kyle arrives with his girlfriend Ava, who films everything. He gives Emma a cheap gift, smiling for the camera. I call Emma to show her card. Kyle’s grin fades when he reads it.
Emma explains, “Mommy’s the one who’s really here for me.”
I hand Kyle a folder of missed child support records and court letters. Ava’s shocked, confronting him about his lies. I calmly wish them a “Happy Father’s Day” and show them out.
After they leave, Emma asks, “Did I do something wrong?”
“No, Baby. You did everything right.”
We bake cookies, sharing quiet strength — the best gift of all.
