"Roy's Promise"

There was a little boy named Roy who lived in a small, cozy house with his parents. Life was filled with joy, laughter, and love. Roy's parents adored each other, and together, they created a world where Roy felt safe and happy. They would go on family outings, have movie nights, and Roy would often find himself in the middle of warm family hugs.

But one day, everything changed. Roy's father made a decision that turned their world upside down. He left, and Roy's life began to fall apart. Roy couldn't understand why his parents, who once loved each other so much, were no longer together. His mother tried her best to keep things normal, but it was hard. They struggled financially, and Roy could see the sadness in his mother's eyes, even though she tried to hide it.

At school, things weren't any easier. His friends would tease him, asking, "Where's your father?" Each word was a painful reminder of his loss. He missed the days when his father would pick him up from school or play with him in the park. Now, it was just him and his mother, and he could see how hard she was working to make ends meet.

As Roy's birthday approached, he felt a mix of hope and sadness. He remembered the birthdays when they would celebrate as a family, with his mother and father singing "Happy Birthday" together. This year, though, things were different. His mother planned a small party, trying to make the day special despite their struggles.

On the morning of his birthday, Roy received a message from his father. "I'll be there in the evening to celebrate your birthday," the message said. Roy's heart soared with happiness. He imagined his father walking through the door, holding a cake, and staying to celebrate. Maybe, just maybe, they would become a family again.

Evening came, and Roy waited by the window, his eyes glued to the road outside. Minutes turned into hours, and his father still hadn't arrived. Roy's heart sank. His mother noticed his hopeful eyes slowly turn to disappointment. She decided to take him to her mother's house to lift his spirits.

When they arrived, Roy was surprised to see his uncles, aunts, cousins, and grandmother all gathered there. They had decorated the house and were waiting to celebrate his birthday. For a while, Roy felt happy again. His mother watched him smile and play, her eyes welling up with tears—both of joy for this moment and sadness for her son's pain.

Later, his mother sat down with him for a heart-to-heart talk.

Mother: "Honey, I want to talk to you about something important. Life isn't always sunshine and rainbows, you know."

Roy: Looks up, curious. "I know, Mom. But it's usually pretty good."

Mother: "That's true. But there are times when things get tough. Sometimes, people will hurt you, and you'll feel sad or angry. That's okay. It's part of being human."

Roy: "Yeah, I guess so."

Mother: "The important thing is to remember that you're not alone. I'm always here for you, no matter what. And so are your friends and family."

Roy: Smiles. "Thanks, Mom."

Mother: "Also, remember that challenges can help you grow stronger. They can teach you important lessons about yourself and the world."

Roy: "I guess you're right."

Mother: "I know you can handle whatever comes your way. Just keep your head up and remember that things will get better. I believe in you."

Roy: Hugs his mom. "Thanks, Mom. I love you."

Then, around 11 o'clock, the doorbell rang. Roy ran to the door, his heart pounding. When he opened it, there stood his father, holding a cake. For a brief moment, Roy felt a flicker of the old days. His father came in, and they sang "Happy Birthday" together. They cut the cake, and Roy made a wish. But just as quickly as he had come, his father left, saying he had to go.

Roy felt a wave of sadness wash over him. "Why did he come just for five minutes?" he asked his mother. "I wanted to talk, play, and dance with him." His mother hugged him tightly, trying to soothe his broken heart.

That night, as his mother tucked him into bed, Roy made a promise to her. With tears in his eyes and a voice full of determination, he said, "Mom, I will never be like Dad. When I grow up, I will always respect others, especially women. I will never leave my family like he did."

His mother hugged him even tighter, her heart aching for her little boy but also swelling with pride. She knew that despite all the pain he was going through, Roy was growing into a kind and thoughtful young man. And as they held each other close, they both knew that no matter how tough things got, they would always have each other.

From that day on, Roy focused on being strong for his mother and himself. He knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but he was determined to build a future where love, respect, and family came first.