Jean’s sixth birthday was supposed to be magical. Her grandmother, Jacqueline, surprised her with a beautiful pink bike—streamers, a basket, even a bell. We were shocked. Jacqueline had never been generous before. But I smiled, not wanting drama at the party.
Five days later, as I folded laundry, I saw her silver car pull into our driveway. She walked up, grabbed the bike, and muttered, “I need it back.” Jean rushed out, asking, “Grandma, why are you taking my bike?”
Jacqueline smiled, but her tone turned sharp. “Mia saw it and cried. Kate asked me to buy her one. I’d get her a new bike, but I’m low on money. Jean won’t remember. She’s only six.”
Oh, we remembered.
That night, I hatched a plan. We invited Jacqueline for dinner, hinting at a surprise gift: a fully paid-for lakeside cabin. Her eyes lit up. Then I delivered the twist: “We put the money in a savings account—for Jean. In case someone steals her bike again.”
Jacqueline went pale and stormed out.
The next day, the bike was returned—no words, just guilt.
Jean rang her bell with joy.
Moral: Never take from a child to please another. Respect and fairness matter—even at six.
