He wanted Michael to succeed. He wanted his son to enjoy the kind of comfortable home that Dennis and Maria had once dreamed of providing for him.
So, when Michael and Isabella struggled to afford their new house, Dennis stepped in.
He helped with the down payment. He contributed toward the polished hardwood floors and granite countertops. When Isabella decided that their curtains looked cheap, Dennis paid for replacements. When she insisted that a particular kitchen mixer was essential, he reached for his credit card.
Even the little luxuries added up.
The expensive furniture, carefully chosen decorations, and enormous Christmas tree all contributed to a picture-perfect home.
Every month, Dennis transferred $2,800 toward the mortgage.
To keep the money flowing, he reduced his grocery budget, postponed repairs to his own house, and stopped buying things he wanted. He told himself that this was what loving fathers did.
He never demanded repayment. He didn’t expect Michael to praise him for every sacrifice.
