"For preserving precious memories," said Grace, and Apple squealed in delight.

"It's perfect! I love it so much, thank you, mama, papa!"

Apple's father chuckled. "That sounds more charming than it does to me, Apple dearest," he said, knowing that Apple always loved him a little more than his mother. "Here's mine. It cannot measure up to your cooking so I dug deep into your interests."

Some of Apple's loves also included, most recently, international tastes, and inside was a hand-woven craft in a crude approximation of two swans together. "I'm sorry I'm not good with my hands, dear," he said, as Apple's eyes welled up. "I looked up that you liked Korean food now and I wanted to give you something from it but I'm all butterfingers. I just--oof!"

Apple lunged into a hug. "it's wonderful daddy. Thank you."

Apple's father smiled and hugged back. "I'm so sorry your mother isn't the best mother, Apple, but I'll always love you."