That night, I stood in the kitchen, busy preparing dinner. I cook carefully, making sure every ingredient is perfectly served—tonight I purposely made my stepdaughter's favorite dish. My hope is simple, I want to see her smile when she is satisfied with this dish. My thoughts are filled with how to respond or get compliments. While cooking, I had a small chat with my husband who was sitting at the dining table. At that moment, the sound of footsteps walking down the stairs. it must be her, she definitely wants to see what I cook. My eyes fell on her with a warm smile but she was wearing neat clothes which made my smile fade.

She asked him permission to hang out with her friends, feelings of sadness and disappointment hit me. It was unexpected by me, she came out while I was preparing dinner. She immediately kissed his cheek as 'affection' and she was about to leave "Wait, kiss her too if you don't. You can't leave." I flinched at his words and now the atmosphere became awkward.