Christmas Eve arrived, and we did our best to carry on Mom’s traditions. We set the table with her favorite tablecloth, cooked her famous stuffing, and shared memories of past holidays. Then, at dinner, Dad proudly introduced Amanda as his new partner. I couldn’t help but feel upset—it didn’t seem right.
Later, I gave Amanda a small gift—a delicate jewelry box. Inside was a photo of my mom, and a note: You are not my mother. No one will ever replace her. Amanda’s expression shifted as she read it, and she excused herself quietly.
My father was upset, but I couldn’t hide how I felt. I reminded him that it was too soon to try and replace Mom. “She deserves to be remembered,” I said.
The night ended with a quiet sadness, but I knew I had done what I felt was right. Mom’s memory was irreplaceable, and I would always honor it.