When our adopted teenage daughter demanded $15,000 for her birthday, we were stunned. But when she tearfully revealed the heartbreaking reason behind her request, it changed our lives forever.
My husband and I had always wanted a child, but after years of trying and countless doctor visits, it became clear we couldn’t have one of our own. We felt lost and heartbroken. Adoption seemed like the best option for us to finally have a family.
We were nervous when we first met Lucy at the foster care center. She was sitting alone, reading a book. Her long brown hair fell over her eyes, and she looked so small and vulnerable. When she glanced up and saw us, she gave a shy smile.
“Hi, Lucy,” I said softly. “I’m Carol, and this is my husband, John. We’ve heard so much about you.”
Lucy nodded, her eyes wide. “Hi.”
We spent the afternoon together, talking and getting to know each other. Lucy was quiet but sweet. By the end of the day, we felt a connection with her. We knew she was the one.
The adoption process was long and tiring, but we finally brought Lucy home. The first few weeks were wonderful. Lucy seemed happy and adjusted well. She loved the meals I cooked and often helped me in the kitchen. John and Lucy bonded over board games and movies.
But things changed after a few months. Lucy started to pull away. She became rude and distant. She refused to eat the meals I prepared, often throwing the food away without a word. When John and I tried to hug her, she would yell and push us away.
One evening, I made her favorite pasta dish. She looked at it with disgust.
“I don’t want this,” she said, pushing the plate away.
“Lucy, please. I made this just for you,” I said, trying to keep my voice calm.
“I don’t care! I hate it!” she screamed, storming off to her room.
John and I sat at the table, stunned and hurt. We couldn’t understand what had happened.
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