But the gift wasn’t as simple as it seemed.
For months, his sons had been suggesting that Donald sell his three-bedroom apartment in the city center. Their idea was to split the money three ways—buy Donald a small place in the suburbs and give each son enough to buy their own homes.
Donald wasn’t opposed. “I don’t need much anymore,” he thought. “A roof over my head, a bed to sleep in—that’s enough.” And with Victor getting married and Aaron expecting his first child, it seemed like the right thing to do.
A week later, the boys hugged their father goodbye at the station. For the first time in years, Donald was going on a vacation. He was looking forward to fresh air, gentle exercise, and meeting people his age who might share stories about better times.
On the eighth day, Aaron and Victor visited him.
“Dad, we found a buyer for the apartment. He won’t even try to negotiate,” Aaron said quickly.
“Great! Let’s go home and I’ll start packing,” Donald replied.
“No need,” Victor assured him. “We brought the papers. Just sign a power of attorney, and we’ll handle everything. We’ll bring your things to your new place, and when you’re back, we’ll choose an apartment together.”
