Jessica grew up with loving business-minded parents in New York. As their only child, she was always the apple of their eye, receiving everything she asked for, including the affections of her elderly grandmother, Donna.
Despite this, Jessica never truly valued their love, often taking it for granted. Especially with her grandma, Donna, whom she visited during summer holidays in Texas. As Donna aged and moved to New York due to health issues, Jessica’s indifference worsened.
One morning, Donna accompanied Jessica to school because her parents were called into work unexpectedly. As they neared a busy road, Donna, worried for Jessica’s safety, insisted on holding her hand. Jessica, seeking approval from her friends, reacted with disdain.
“Why are you clinging to me like this?” Jessica sneered. “Do you want my friends to laugh at me because a poor old woman is escorting me? Cross on your own!”
Donna’s heart saddened, but she bravely crossed the street alone, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. When they reached the school, Jessica was eager to distance herself further.
“You don’t need to come in, Grandma. You already embarrassed me enough today. Just head home and tell mom to pick me up later.”
Donna turned away, hurt but hopeful that things might improve as time passed. Sadly, nothing changed.
When Jessica reached 25, she got engaged to Edward, the wealthy son of her father’s business partner. The wedding was planned for a month later at a grand New York venue. Jessica carefully crafted the guest list, deliberately excluding Donna.
“I’ve invited everyone but Grandma. She’s not coming,” Jessica declared firmly while discussing the guests with her parents.
“Honey, she’s your grandmother,” her father protested. “How can we ignore her like this?”
“Your father is right, Jess. It’s not right,” her mother added.
“Listen, it’s MY wedding. Edward and I want it perfect. Let’s admit it, Grandma doesn’t fit our lifestyle. So, she’s not invited! I don’t care how you explain it to her, just make sure she knows,” Jessica said, ending the discussion abruptly.
The following morning, as the family gathered for breakfast, Jessica’s parents were still unsure how to break the news to Donna.
But Donna had already overheard their conversation. “I know the wedding’s soon,” she began apologetically. “But I’m afraid I can’t make it.”
“Such a pity, Grandma,” Jessica replied, barely masking her relief. “But I understand.”
“Thank you, sweetheart,” Donna said softly. “I wish you both all the happiness in the world.” With that, Donna left the room.
The wedding proceeded as planned, a glamorous affair with Donna noticeably absent, much to Jessica’s satisfaction. Yet the day after, there was Donna at Jessica’s door, holding an old chest.
“Why are you here?” Jessica fumed. “I told everyone you weren’t well. Are you trying to make me look bad?”
“No, dear,” Donna said gently. “I just came to say hi and personally give you this wedding gift.”
“It wasn’t necessary. Goodbye!” Jessica retorted.
Just then, Edward walked in, “What a nice surprise, Mrs. Matthews! I heard you were unwell. Feeling better?”
“Yes, much better!” Donna smiled. “I only came by to wish you well.”
“Please come in,” Edward said warmly, inviting Donna inside for tea and later, offering her a ride home. Jessica accepted Donna’s gift in front of everyone but tossed it aside once no one was watching.
Afterwards, she never reached out to Donna. A short while later, she and Edward jetted off to Las Vegas for their honeymoon. Upon returning, Jessica learned of Donna’s passing, feeling no real sorrow—her mind instead focused on what to wear to the funeral.
Finally selecting a designer dress, Jessica noticed Donna’s old chest in a dusty corner. Out of curiosity, she decided to open it.
Her mood shifted dramatically upon finding a stunning diamond pendant, a photo album, and a heartfelt letter. Tears pooled in her eyes as she read Donna’s words.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t always give you what you wanted, Jessica. But I love you more than anything. Take this small gift with love. I spent my savings on it, hoping it makes you proud. I love you, Grandma Donna.”
Jessica carefully examined the pendant, which held a cherished photograph of her cuddling with Grandma as a child. Overcome with emotion, she thumbed through the album filled with joyful memories.
“I’m so sorry, Grandma,” she sobbed, hugging the gift. “I never appreciated you, but all you ever did was care. I’m truly sorry!”
After the funeral, Jessica stayed by Donna’s grave, holding a beloved scarf. “I’m sorry, Grandma. I know I can’t change the past, but I hope you found peace and happiness. I do love you.”
As time moved on, Jessica carried with her the lesson of valuing loved ones, even if it came a little too late. Her grandmother’s gift became a cherished reminder of the love she took for granted.
