When I noticed my parents’ marriage faltering, I tried to intervene to rekindle their romance. At 23 and living with them while job hunting, I saw my mom feeling unappreciated and my dad growing complacent. I thought surprising her with flowers and gifts from a “secret admirer” would reignite their relationship.

However, my gesture backfired. One evening, my mom revealed, “I’ve started packing my things because I need a break from your dad.” She explained that the anonymous gifts made her realize she was missing affection and self-worth. My dad admitted, “I’ve been so caught up in daily life that I forgot how important small gestures are.”

Overwhelmed with guilt, I confessed, “I’m the one behind the gifts. I thought they’d help you reconnect.” My parents were shocked but acknowledged that their issues ran deeper.

Eventually, they began counseling and encouraged me to move forward with my life. As I left for a new job, I learned that love requires more than grand gestures; it needs genuine communication and effort.