Graduation day was meant to be a joyful occasion for Michelle, but it turned sour when she requested a photograph with her biological parents. This sparked a fit of jealousy in her stepmother, leading to the destruction of a cherished item. Is forgiveness appropriate for Michelle?

For any high schooler, graduation is a highly anticipated event. Michelle was no exception. After enduring countless all-nighters, numerous tests, and too many coffees, she was ready to embrace adulthood.

However, a single photograph disrupted her big day.

Her mother arrived first, holding a beautiful bouquet of pink peonies—Michelle’s favorite.

“OMG, Mom! You shouldn’t have,” Michelle exclaimed, enjoying the fragrance of the flowers.

“You’ve earned this, Michelle,” her mom responded warmly.

As Michelle hugged her mom, she saw her dad and stepmom, Claire, coming towards them. Her stomach tightened.

Despite her parents’ divorce when she was young and her dad’s quick remarriage to Claire, Michelle felt loved by all. However, Claire often competed with her mom or clung to her dad, creating tension.

But Michelle believed that since it was her special day and everyone involved was an adult, nothing would ruin it.

“Hey, champ!” her dad greeted her. “Ready to graduate?”

“Absolutely, Dad,” Michelle replied, keeping the mood upbeat.

“Congratulations, Michelle. We’re so proud of you,” Claire managed, though her smile seemed forced.

“Thanks, Claire,” Michelle acknowledged. “It’s great having everyone here.”

Her mom added, “That’s what family is for,” not noticing Claire’s resentful glance.

The graduation passed in a blur of excitement. After the ceremony, they all gathered for pictures. That’s when the situation deteriorated.

“Dad, Mom, can we take a picture together? Just the three of us?” Michelle asked.

“Why would you want a picture with him and his ex-wife? That’s disrespectful to our marriage,” Claire retorted sharply, her annoyance evident.