The Gift Meant for Someone Else

I realized something was wrong when my Christmas gift had my name crossed out.

My partner said it was a joke, but everyone laughed except me. Later,

I found the receipt hidden in his coat. The gift was originally for someone else. When I asked,

he said plans changed. At dinner, his phone lit up with a thank you text.

I smiled through carols, wondering if Christmas was about forgiveness or finally believing

what I saw that night alone quietly.