Parents are our first loves and the lenses through which we perceive the world. They exemplify selflessness and kindness, and their acts of love inspire us greatly. These eight short stories highlight the profound, enduring bonds between parents and their children, honoring the remarkable lengths parents take to make their children feel loved. I discovered that my fiancé had cheated on me a few days before our wedding.

I just informed my father about it. He stated, “We cannot cancel the wedding now. The invites have already been mailed.” On the day, as he led me down the aisle, I observed something unusual: the aisle did not lead to the altar. Instead, it curled softly out a side door, away from the waiting visitors. Confused, I looked at him, and he winked. “Dad, what’s going on?” I asked.

He said, “You do not have to go through with this. I informed the guests that the wedding has been postponed owing to a personal situation. They will understand. You don’t need to explain anything to anyone today. I felt a sense of relaxation rush over me. When we stepped outdoors, I noticed a beautifully decorated garden with a small group of my closest friends and family gathering around a cozy setting. There was no indication of a wedding ceremony, only a celebration of love and support.