The Perfume I Discarded Hid a Secret I Realized Too Late

“I know this perfume is temporary, but next month I’ll surprise you with the necklace you’ve been dreaming about. Thank you for believing in me, even when I don’t say it enough. You are my forever gift.”

I sank to the floor, holding the bottle and note to my chest, tears streaming down my face. The perfume wasn’t thoughtless—it was filled with love, effort, and quiet intention. He had been saving for something bigger, but the real gift had already been given.

His love wasn’t flashy. It was steady, present, and true. And I hadn’t noticed.