Felix, a single dad in his mid-30s, was relaxing in his armchair, barely paying attention to the TV in his small, slightly worn living room. The sound of the sitcom couldn’t hide the loneliness he felt since losing his wife in a car crash seven years ago.
Felix found comfort in his job as a janitor and in raising his daughter, Alice. She brought him joy, reminding him of the happy moments he once had with her mother.
One day, Felix noticed his elderly neighbor struggling to cut her overgrown lawn. Wanting to help, he rushed over to mow it for her. Grateful, the woman insisted on giving him a strange, antique box as a thank-you gift.
But that gift quickly led to trouble when Felix received an urgent phone call from the woman’s lawyer, requesting a meeting.
One day, Felix heard a noise outside and glanced out the window. He saw his elderly neighbor, Mrs. White, struggling with her lawnmower. Mrs. White was known for being independent despite her age, but today, she clearly needed help.
Without a second thought, Felix walked over and offered his assistance. “Let me help you with that, Mrs. White,” he said, taking control of the lawnmower. Together, they worked quietly under the warm afternoon sun, finishing the task in no time.
After they finished, Mrs. White smiled warmly and thanked Felix.
“Felix, you’ve always been so kind, helping me without expecting anything in return.”
Felix, ever humble, replied, “It’s no trouble at all, Mrs. White.”
Wanting to show her gratitude, Mrs. White offered him a beautifully decorated box. Felix hesitated, feeling uncomfortable accepting such an expensive-looking gift. “I can’t accept this, Mrs. White,” he said.
Respecting his decision, Mrs. White smiled and handed him a bag of apples instead.
“Then please, at least take these apples for Alice,” she said, gently urging him.
Felix thanked Mrs. White for the apples and headed home. Once inside, he gave the apples to his daughter, Alice, who eagerly accepted them, her eyes lighting up.
“Thank you, Daddy!” she said with excitement.
As Felix settled back into his quiet evening, Alice made an unexpected discovery. She pulled out the same ornate box that Mrs. White had tried to give Felix earlier.
Surprised, she ran over to him, holding the box and exclaiming, “Daddy! Look what was in the bag with the apples!”
The mysterious box in Felix’s hands stirred up curiosity about why Mrs. White had hidden it among the apples. Felix, feeling uneasy, told Alice, “Alice, we can’t keep this. It’s not ours.”
Alice, intrigued, responded, “But Dad, what if there’s something cool inside? Something we need?”
Felix shook his head gently and said, “Even if that’s true, it doesn’t make it ours. This box belongs to someone else, and we need to respect that.”
Accepting her father’s decision, Alice agreed, and Felix set off to return the box to Mrs. White. When he reached her house, a strange, foreboding silence greeted him.
“Mrs. White?” Felix called out, but there was no answer. The stillness of the house felt heavy as he cautiously searched for her. Finally, he found her lying motionless on the couch. It was clear that Mrs. White had quietly passed away.
Felix stood there in shock, the box in his hand, unsure of what to do next.
Shocked and unsure of what to do, Felix stood frozen, the weight of Mrs. White’s death sinking in. He knew he needed to call someone, but he hesitated, glancing between her lifeless body and the mysterious box in his hands.
After a moment of inner conflict, Felix made a decision. He stepped back, leaving the house with the box still in his grasp, now feeling like a heavy, burdensome secret he carried with him.
Back home, the box sat on his table, its presence feeling more ominous with every passing moment.
Curious and anxious, Felix began researching the box online. He typed “antique box gold diamond inserts” into the search bar and quickly found similar items listed for enormous sums of money, with one even valued at $250,000. The discovery shocked him, tempting him with the thought of financial security for Alice. But it also tugged at his conscience, leaving him conflicted about what to do.
Just as Felix was deep in thought, the phone suddenly rang, shattering the silence.
Felix’s heart raced as an unknown voice spoke over the phone, “Good evening, is this Felix? My name is Jonathan Pryce. I am Mrs. White’s attorney. I believe it is imperative for us to discuss a matter of significant concern. Can we arrange a face-to-face meeting?”
Feeling a wave of nervousness, Felix replied, “Sure, we can meet. How about tomorrow?”
“Let’s convene at ‘Café Lorraine’ on the main street at 10 a.m. It’s a quiet place, conducive for such discussions,” Mr. Pryce suggested.
“Okay, I’ll be there,” Felix confirmed, ending the call with his heart pounding. What could this meeting be about? He glanced once more at the mysterious box, unsure of what was coming next.
Felix arrived at ‘Café Lorraine’ and spotted Mrs. White’s lawyer, Jonathan Pryce, seated at a corner table. To his surprise, sitting next to him was a man Felix didn’t recognize.
As he approached, Jonathan introduced the stranger. “This is Henry, Mrs. White’s son.”
Felix was stunned—he had no idea Mrs. White had a family.
Without wasting any time, Henry spoke, his tone sharp and accusatory. “I know you were at my mother’s house yesterday,” he said, glaring at Felix.
Felix quickly defended himself, “I was just helping her out, like I often did.”
Henry’s face hardened. “My mother had an antique box with significant sentimental value to our family. It’s been in our family for generations… and now it’s gone. Things like that don’t just disappear.”
Feeling cornered and uneasy, Felix said nothing, which led Henry to make a proposal.
“Listen, I don’t care how it happened, but I need that box back. I’m willing to pay you a thousand dollars for its return. No questions asked,” Henry offered.
Felix, knowing the box’s true value, shot back, “I’m not an idiot. I know that box is worth a lot more than what you’re offering. And no, I didn’t steal it. Your mother gave it to me willingly.”
Henry was caught off guard as Felix declared, “I’ve decided to auction the box. If it means that much to you, you’re welcome to bid on it, just like anyone else.”
With that, Felix abruptly left the café, feeling both defiant and apprehensive about the unfolding situation.
The following day at the auction, experts gathered around the box, marveling at its craftsmanship. They began questioning Felix about its origins. Under their intense scrutiny, Felix hesitated and stammered, “It was… it was an inheritance,” which only fueled their suspicions.
The situation grew tense as experts demanded proof of ownership for the box. Talk of involving the police began to circulate.
Panicked and unprepared, Felix stammered, “I… I don’t have them with me.”
Feeling the walls closing in, Felix made a desperate decision to escape. He fled the auction house, overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty about the legal trouble he might face.
Back home, Felix was plagued by thoughts of the box and its potential to change their lives. Realizing he needed proof of the box’s legitimacy, he knew he had to return to Mrs. White’s house to find it.
Late that night, Felix sneaked into Mrs. White’s house, frantically searching for any documents that might prove his claim to the box. Despite his desperate efforts, he found nothing.
As his frustration grew, a sudden noise startled him. He turned to see Henry standing in the doorway.
“I knew you’d come,” Henry said, his voice carrying a mix of disappointment and resignation. “After I heard about the auction, I figured you’d show up here looking for something to legitimize your claim to that box.”
Feeling trapped and defenseless, Felix listened as Henry outlined his conditions.
“Felix, you’ve made a grave mistake,” Henry continued, his tone stern. “Breaking and entering is a criminal offense. But I’m willing to overlook it if you do exactly as I say.”
Henry’s terms were harsh but straightforward. “You have until tomorrow. Bring the box to me, or I’ll have no choice but to report this to the police. They’ll be very interested in your little nocturnal visit.”
Feeling defeated and realizing he had no real choice, Felix reluctantly agreed. Henry escorted him out, and Felix returned home, overwhelmed by the seriousness of his predicament.
Felix weighed his limited options: he could either surrender the box to Henry, avoiding legal trouble but forfeiting any potential financial gain, or take a risk that could jeopardize his and Alice’s future.
In his turmoil, Felix decided to send Alice to her grandmother’s house, far from the looming trouble. He packed a bag for her, including the box, as a precaution.
Just then, Alice appeared, noticing her father’s distress. “Dad, what’s going on? You look upset,” she asked with innocent concern.
Felix knew he had to explain everything to Alice. He paced his living room, the gravity of their situation weighing heavily on him.
“Alice,” he began, trying to keep his voice steady, “this box is really important. It’s worth $250,000, and it could change our lives. But I can’t keep it. I need you to take it to Grandma in Virginia.”
Alice, overwhelmed by the news, asked, “But why can’t you come with me, Dad?”
Felix sighed deeply. “I might not be around for a little while, sweetheart. There’s a chance I’ll have to… go away for some time. But I promise it won’t be forever. I’ll do everything I can to come back to you.”
As they packed, Felix reassured Alice of her strength and the importance of their plan. At the bus station, amidst a heartfelt goodbye, he watched her board the bus, feeling a piece of his heart leave with her.
Returning home to the heavy silence of the now-empty house, Felix made a crucial decision.
He picked up the phone and called Henry. “I don’t have the box, Henry. It’s out of my hands,” he said firmly. “I’m ready to turn myself in. You can call the police.”
Soon, the police arrived and took Felix away without resistance. As he was led out, his thoughts were solely focused on Alice’s safety and their future.
Months later, in prison, Felix’s routine was suddenly interrupted by a guard’s commanding voice. “Pack your things and come with me!”
Confused but hopeful, Felix followed the guard, his mind racing with possibilities. When they arrived, he was met with a sight that filled him with immense relief and joy: Alice was waiting for him.
“Dad,” she said, her voice breaking through the gloom of his prison life, her presence instantly lifting his spirits.
Alice explained that she had finally unlocked the box and discovered documents and a letter from Mrs. White. The letter revealed that Mrs. White wanted Felix to inherit the box. With this newfound evidence, Alice managed to secure his release.
“I couldn’t believe it myself, Dad,” Alice said, her eyes shining with determination. “After you sent me away, I kept thinking about the box, about the code… And then, one day, it just clicked!”
Felix was deeply moved by Mrs. White’s final act of kindness and Alice’s unwavering resolve.
“So, I took those papers and found a buyer who collects antiques like this one. They didn’t just buy the box, Dad. They also helped me find a lawyer, explained bail, and how we could fight the case.”
Reunited, Felix and Alice embraced tightly, ready to face their new beginning. “We don’t have to worry anymore,” Alice assured him. “We have enough to start over, but more importantly, we have each other. And we’re going to get through this, one step at a time.”
New 1673
My Dad Replaced My Mom with My Best Friend – I Made Him Taste His Own Medicine
When Hannah’s Dad waltzed into her birthday party with her best friend on his arm, she was determined to make him pay. Little did he know Hannah’s plan would unexpectedly turn the tables at her graduation party.
Serious woman and birthday cake | Source: Midjourney
“Happy birthday, kiddo,” Dad said, but his words barely registered.
The room was full of balloons and banners, but everything started feeling suddenly wrong.
“What’s the fuss?” he asked, noticing people staring.
I couldn’t believe it was happening. Dad had walked into my 25th birthday party with my best friend, Jessica, as his plus one.
Older man with young woman | Source: Midjourney
“What is Jess doing with you?” I asked as soon as I recovered from the shock.
“What do you mean?” he chuckled. “We’re together, in love!”
“Are you serious? Mom is here, and everyone is watching us!”
He shrugged. “So what? I don’t care what she or anyone else feels; it’s her problem. This is MY LIFE. I want to have fun.”
Couple looking into each other’s eyes | Source: Midjourney
I glanced at Mom, standing alone with tears streaming down her face. She just turned and went inside, and I couldn’t stand that.
“If I knew you would do something like this, I would’ve never invited you!” I snapped, turning to Dad. “And you, Jess, how could you do this? You were my best friend!”
“I’m sorry, Hannah. But it sounds like a YOU problem if you can’t accept this.”
I was shocked.
“Leave!” I said. “Just get out! Both of you!”
Smug-looking woman | Source: Midjourney
“Hey, Hannah, you’re overreacting,” Dad scoffed. “It’s not like your Mom and I are together, and I brought someone new into our lives.”
“No, I’m not overreacting, Dad, and I don’t want to talk about this. You need to leave. This party is for me and Mom. And this is Mom’s house.”
“Fine, we’ll go.”
I watched as Dad walked out, and then I returned to Mom and hugged her tightly. “Mom, I’m so sorry. I didn’t know they’d—”
“It’s okay, sweetie. Thank you,” was all she said.
Sad woman among party guests | Source: Midjourney
It was hard for me to believe what had happened, but all I cared about was the faces of the other guests staring at my mom in pity and disbelief. I hated the way they were looking at Mom as if she were some helpless woman.
A week passed.
One Sunday morning, Mom and I sat on the couch in her cozy living room, sipping tea.
Two cups of tea | Source: Midjourney
I loved our little sessions where it was just the two of us. Usually, we’d bake one of Grandma’s recipes, but looking at Mom’s face, I knew she was still not over what had happened.
Dad and Mom had divorced only recently, and I know Mom still missed him. So, what happened on my birthday still bothered her.
“I’m really looking forward to graduation next month, Mom,” I said, trying to lift the mood. “It’s a big milestone for me.”
Woman wearing graduation hat | Source: Midjourney
“Oh, I’m so proud of you, Hannah,” Mom smiled, her eyes shining with pride. “You’ve worked so hard for this day.
“It’s just that… seeing Jessica with your father was hard,” she suddenly said, sighing sadly. “She’ll be graduating too, right?”
I reached over and took her hand, squeezing it gently.
“Yes, Mom. It was terrible. But you’re stronger than this. You deserve better.”
Sad elderly woman | Source: Midjourney
Mom looked at me, tears welling up in her eyes. “It’s just so hard, Hannah. I never expected this from Jessica. She-she was like a daughter, and now this…imagining them in bed…”
Mom broke down into tears, and I raced to her side to hug her.
“Your dad…” she sniffled. “What did he tell me when he was leaving? You’re too old, Caroline. You don’t excite me anymore. Oh, Hannah, how could he do this?”
Young woman consoling an older woman | Source: Midjourney
Mom wept into my shoulders, and I can’t tell you how it broke my heart.
“I didn’t either, Mom,” I said, trying my best to console her. “But we won’t let them hurt us anymore. You’re not alone in this. We’ll get through it together, okay?”
Mom was very disturbed after what happened at my birthday party, and I had a plan to set things right. It’s just that I couldn’t tell Mom about it right then.
Devastated elderly woman | Source: Midjourney
The following Thursday morning, I walked into the cozy café near the university, bustling with students and professionals.
The smell of coffee and chatter filled the air.
I spotted Tom at a corner table and waved.
Inside a cafe | Source: Midjourney
I remembered Tom from when I was young. He was one of Dad’s colleagues, always nice and kind. He used to visit us often, but then we moved across town, and those visits stopped. Seeing his familiar face brought back memories.
“Hi, Tom,” I said as I sat down. “It’s good to see you.”
“Wow, Hannah! You’ve grown up!” he chuckled. “It’s good to see you too. How are things?” he asked.
Young woman talking to older man at cafe | Source: Midjourney
“Busy, but exciting. Graduation is just around the corner,” I replied.
A week ago, when I contacted Tom on Facebook, I wasn’t very hopeful he would reply. But somehow, his name was the first to pop into my head, and I just gave it a try.
Luckily, he replied.
“By the way, I thought about your idea,” he said as I sipped my coffee. “I’m okay with that. Will your Mom agree?”
Woman drinking coffee | Source: Midjourney
“She will. Thanks. I appreciate all your help,” I said sincerely.
“You’re welcome, Hannah. Your mom deserves better, and so do you,” he replied.
We chatted about various things, recalling some sweet memories of when I was a little girl and Tom used to get me princess dolls. He was just the sweetest man from my childhood, and I had a brilliant plan brewing at the back of my mind.
A cute girl | Source: Midjourney
I didn’t realize how time flew by and the graduation day arrived.
I stood in Mom’s bedroom, surrounded by elegant dresses and makeup.
Mom held up a beautiful dress, and I nodded approvingly.
“I can’t believe my baby is graduating,” she said, zipping up my dress. “You look stunning, Hannah.”
Older woman helping younger woman get ready | Source: Midjourney
“Thanks, Mom. You look amazing, too. Tonight’s going to be special,” I replied, smiling.
Mom had put on a shimmering navy blue dress that hugged her figure gracefully. Her hair was styled in soft waves, and she wore delicate silver jewelry that complemented her look perfectly.
“I hope your dad behaves himself tonight,” she said, wearing her earrings.
Gorgeous older woman | Source: Midjourney
“Don’t worry about him, Mom. Just focus on having a good time. Everything will be fine,” I assured her.
Mom smiled, but I could see the worry in her eyes.
I squeezed her hand. “Really, Mom. Enjoy tonight. You deserve it. I’m so happy for you.”
“I will, sweetie. Thank you,” she said, giving me a warm hug.
Mother and daughter hugging | Source: Midjourney
I looked in the mirror, adjusting my dress and makeup. “Now, I gotta leave. See you soon,” I said, grabbing my bag.
“Alright, Hannah. See you there,” Mom replied, giving me a quick kiss.
As I left the house, I took a deep breath. The plan was set, and I felt ready. I knew tonight had to be perfect, not just for me but for Mom, too. This was our night, and I wouldn’t let anything ruin it.
Woman in graduation attire standing with other graduates | Source: Midjourney
When I arrived at the graduation hall, I took one last look in the mirror and straightened my cap and gown.
The room buzzed with excitement as graduates and their families filled the seats.
I scanned the crowd and spotted Dad arriving with Jessica. They looked confident, but I knew that would change soon.
Young girl in graduation attire posing with older man | Source: Midjourney
About 15 minutes later, Mom entered the auditorium with Tom. She looked stunning, and Tom looked dapper in a suit.
Seeing them together made me smile. They waved at me, and I waved back.
I could see shock clouding Dad and Jessica’s faces when they saw Mom happy with a guy about five years younger than her!
“Thanks for making it, Tom. Mom, you look gorgeous!” I said, hugging her.
Good-looking couple | Source: Midjourney
It was then Dad’s voice cut through.
“Tom? What are you doing here?”
We turned to see him with Jessica behind him.
Tom put an arm around Mom. “Supporting a dear friend and her daughter,” he said.
Happy couple | Source: Midjourney
“Didn’t you mention he was your colleague? How did this happen?” I heard Jessica whispering to Dad, and I couldn’t help but smile because my plan was successful.
“Well, Mom and Tom have been catching up lately. They realized they have a lot in common,” I said, grinning.
Dad looked flustered. “I see,” he said. “Well, it’s… nice to see you, Tom.”
Serious-looking man | Source: Midjourney
Tom smirked slightly. “Nice to see you too, Robert. Life takes interesting turns, doesn’t it?”
As the evening went on, Mom and Tom looked genuinely happy together. They laughed and danced, looking like a perfect couple. Jessica tried to keep up appearances, but her discomfort was evident.
Dad couldn’t hide his frustration either. His eyes kept darting towards Mom and Tom, and I could see the wheels turning in his head.
Couple looking happy together | Source: Midjourney
Before leaving, Mom hugged me tightly. “Thank you for everything, sweetheart. I’m so proud of you.”
“I’m proud of you too, Mom,” I said, smiling. “You deserve all the happiness in the world.”
As I watched Mom walk away with Tom, I knew Dad regretted his choices. He realized too late that he had lost the best thing in his life. I also saw he pushed Jess away when she asked him for a dance, and I laughed.
My plan to show Dad that Mom could be happy without him worked perfectly. Mom and Tom fell in love and are now together. I couldn’t be happier for her.
A happy family | Source: Midjourney
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