After trying to conceive for a very long time and failed over and over again, adoption was our last choice of becoming parents. So, following a bunch of interviews with plenty of adoption agencies, we adopted the most beautiful girl there was, Jennifer.

This 4-year-old beauty made our world much better. She added joy to our everyday life and filled the void in our hearts that we had for many years.

Our family felt perfect—every day was an adventure, and every moment a cherished memory. One day, Richard suggested getting ice cream, and though Jennifer seemed excited, she acted oddly, holding my hand tightly. That night, she whispered something unsettling: “Mommy, don’t trust Daddy.”

Though Richard had been trying hard to be a good dad, her words lingered in my mind. Days later, while making dinner, I overheard Richard on the phone, saying, “Make sure Maria doesn’t find out, but I need to be careful around Jennifer, or she might ruin my plan.” My heart sank—was Jennifer right?

When I confronted him, Richard admitted he’d been planning a surprise party for my birthday, wanting to celebrate big since it was my first as a mom. I felt ashamed for doubting him.

The party was incredible, and adopting Jennifer proved to be the best decision we ever made. Life felt complete with my beautiful family.