My name’s Dave, and I’m a 49-year-old manager at a car repair shop. I’ve worked with cars my whole life. It’s a tough job, but it pays the bills. I have a wonderful wife, Sarah, and a 19-year-old daughter, Kira, the light of my life. Kira recently got into her dream university, and I couldn’t be prouder.
On my birthday, we had a big family celebration the day before. Today, my auto shop buddies were over for a backyard BBQ. We were grilling, drinking beer, and having a good time. Suddenly, Kira appeared, looking upset. She’s usually full of energy, so I knew something was wrong.
“Kira, what’s wrong?” I asked, concerned.
“Dad, I need to talk to you,” she said, eyes red with tears.
“Sure, what is it?” I asked, putting my arm around her.
“Dad, I’m pregnant,” she blurted out, tears streaming down her face.
My heart stopped. I was surprised and then happy, realizing I was going to be a grandpa. But Kira pointed across the yard.
“It’s him,” she said, pointing at Mike, one of my best mechanics. He’s 45 and single. I couldn’t believe it. Mike, with my daughter? Rage filled me.
“Mike! Get over here!” I yelled.
Mike walked over nervously. “Dave, I can explain,” he started.
“Explain what?” I shouted. “How could you do this? She’s just a kid!”
“Dad, we love each other,” Kira said. “We’ve been together for months.”
“Months? And you didn’t tell me?” I was furious. “You’ve betrayed me, both of you.”
“Dave, I never wanted to hurt you,” Mike said. “I love Kira. We didn’t plan this, but we’re in it together.”
“Get out,” I said. “Both of you. Get out of my house.”
A few days later, Kira came back. She told me Mike sold his car and his grandmother’s house to pay for her tuition. I was shocked. Had I judged them too quickly?
“Dad, Mike isn’t a bad person,” Kira said. “He’s always treated me with respect. He wants to be there for me and our baby.”
Sarah, my wife, suggested I talk to Mike. “Maybe it’s time to let go of the anger,” she said. “Think about what’s best for Kira and the baby.”
I’m torn. Should I forgive Mike and support my daughter? Or should I hold firm? How would you handle this situation? Your thoughts and opinions would be valuable right now.
