The poor girl only brought a basket of fruit to her boyfriend’s house to introduce herself, but unexpectedly, his mother showed a cold attitude…

Isabela was born in a small town by the river. Her father died young, and her mother worked tirelessly to raise her and her sister. The hard life taught her to be thrifty, independent, and to appreciate the little things.

When she went to university in the city, Isabela worked various jobs: waitress in a café, tutor, selling products online… Thanks to this, she not only covered her expenses but was also able to send some money to her mother. It was at the library where she worked that she met Diego, a tall, kind senior from a well-to-do family.

After more than a year of dating, Diego suggested taking her to his parents’ house. Isabela was excited but also nervous. She knew that the circumstances of both families were very different, but she trusted in Diego’s sincere love.

That morning, Isabela got up early to go to the market and choose the freshest fruit: red apples, purple grapes, oranges… She carefully placed them in a pretty wicker basket and decorated it with a ribbon. Although the gift was simple, it was the best she could buy with the money she had earned herself.

Upon arriving at Diego’s house, she introduced herself politely. His father greeted her kindly, but his mother, Doña Carmen, only glanced quickly at the basket, displaying a slightly indifferent expression.

“What has this girl brought, Diego?” she asked.
“It’s fruit for dessert, Mom,” Diego replied, smiling.

Doña Carmen nodded slightly and went back to the kitchen to say something to the maid. Isabela didn’t pay much attention, thinking everything was normal.

A little while later, the food was served. In front of Isabela was a plate of boiled vegetables, watery pumpkin soup, and a plate of cold tofu. Everything was simple, although a delicious aroma wafted from the kitchen. Through the crack in the door, Isabela saw a generous meal—golden chicken, steamed fish, stewed shrimp, braised beef—being taken away.

Diego frowned: “Mom, didn’t you prepare a lot of dishes this morning?”
Doña Carmen forced a smile: “Oh, we’re saving those dishes for this afternoon’s guests. Eating vegetables is healthy too.”