Chapter 399

Madison

“You can’t just buy expensive gifts and expect love in return. That’s not how it works.” I said, feeling the weight of my words settle between us like a chasm. I wanted him to understand this fundamental truth: genuine connection and affection are earned over time, through effort and heartfelt interaction, not through a transaction.

“I’m not trying to buy his love. I’m giving a gift with love. There’s a difference.”

“It looks like you’re trying to skip the hard parts. The conversations, the explanations, the actual parenting. You think you can just show up with some expensive toy and suddenly you’re father of the year?”

“That’s not what I’m doing.”

“Then what are you doing?” I demanded. “Because I don’t see a plan here. I see a man who just discovered he has a son and thinks material things will fix years of absence.”

“You’re twisting this.”

“Am I? You bought him a gift before you even met him properly. Before you asked me if