“I should have told you sooner, Dot. I just didn’t know how. It’s not exactly the kind of thing that comes up in conversation.
And… talking about Brian is a lot for me.”
“And you didn’t think to tell me?” I asked Gloria. “You knew about Brian and Jerry the entire time and just… didn’t? Ruth asked for these earrings, dammit.
She asked Santa for them, and that’s why I thought something was going on.”
Gloria shook her head sadly.
“I didn’t know Ruth would notice the earrings, let alone ask for them. If I had, I would’ve explained everything right away. I never wanted to cause trouble for anyone here…”
That Christmas was a mix of heartbreak and healing.
Jerry and I had a long talk, and while I wasn’t thrilled about the secrets, I couldn’t deny the beauty of his promise to Brian. And honestly, Gloria was a part of our family. Ruth adored her.
We decided to sit down with Ruth and a platter of waffles, trying to explain the story behind the earrings in a way she could understand.
She was fascinated, of course, and still insisted Santa had to bring her a pair.
And Santa delivered.
On Christmas morning, Ruth opened a tiny box to find her very own heart-shaped earrings. Her face lit up brighter than the tree, and for the first time in weeks, I felt my heart swell with joy instead of doubt.
Those earrings became more than just jewelry. They became a sort of reminder — of love and strength.
Of Brian’s love for his sister. Of Jerry’s loyalty to his friend. And the love that kept our family together, even through misunderstandings.
We also taught Ruth the power of promises and unconditional love.
Sometimes, the truth hurts. But sometimes, it heals.
And this Christmas, it did both.
Do you have any opinions on this?
Soirce: amomama
