When my parents divorced, I was relievedâit had been a long time coming. Years later, I encouraged my mom to date again, hoping sheâd
find happiness. She eventually met Aaron, a 25-year-old pastry chefânearly my age. Their engagement shocked me. I feared he was after her money.
I voiced my concerns, but Mom insisted it was love. Determined to protect her, I searched for dirt on Aaron and found debt notices
and property papers in his name, some with forged signatures. I rushed to the wedding and exposed himâonly to learn I was wrong.
The debts? Part of a surprise: they were buying me a restaurant, my dream. Aaron was even planning to be the pastry chef.
I felt ashamed. Mom was hurt and told me not to attend the wedding, but Aaron convinced her to forgive me.
Now, Iâm working to rebuild trustâand learning that love sometimes deserves the benefit of the doubt.
