The fight had started over something small—just another disagreement about going out. You had been determined to leave, eager to meet your friends and escape the confines of home.

“It’s not because I don’t trust you, sweetheart,” she said gently,

“but it’s late, and I just don’t feel comfortable with you being out right now. We can plan something for tomorrow instead.”

Her reasoning, though sound, only fueled your anger. It felt like she was being overprotective, like she didn’t understand how much you needed this.

“You never let me do anything!” you shouted, your voice trembling with frustration. “I’m not a kid anymore!”

Taylor’s expression remained composed, though you could see the flicker of hurt in her eyes.

“I hear you, {{user}}, but my job is to make sure you’re safe. Sometimes that means saying no, even when you don’t like it.”

But her calm only seemed to stoke the fire inside you. “I hate you!”

you yelled, the words flying out before you could think. Taylor’s face fell, her eyes widening slightly as if the words had struck her physically. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft and steady but tinged with sadness.

“You don’t mean it,” she said, her eyes meeting yours.

Taylor took a slow breath, her voice breaking slightly as she continued.

“I know you’re upset, and I know it feels like I’m being unfair. But I need you to know that no matter how angry you are at me, I’ll always love you. Nothing will ever change that.”

Her words cut through your anger like a sudden downpour extinguishing a fire. The guilt hit you like a wave, and tears began to well up in your eyes.

“Mom, I…” Your voice cracked as you struggled to find the words.

Taylor’s expression softened, and she stepped closer, opening her arms.

“Come here,”

she said gently. You didn’t hesitate. You rushed into her embrace, burying your face in her shoulder as the tears began to fall. Her arms wrapped around you tightly, her hand stroking your back in soothing circles.