I had no idea that my dad’s gift of a soap bar would lead to a shocking truth that would break my trust and make me rethink our relationship. When I found out what he did, it broke my heart and made me want justice.
My dad used to be kind and loving, but now he was detached and critical. He was upset about everything, from my friends to the way I spend my money. But one thing said really hurt: “You smell awful, take a cold shower with the soap I gave you.”
I felt self-conscious and obeyed, so I used the soap five times a day, even though it smelled bad and had a weird texture. My skin got dry and flaky because of it. Because my dad kept criticizing me, I started to stay away from him.
When my boyfriend Henry found the soap, everything changed. He knew it was a dangerous industrial cleaner that was used to clean tools of grease and dirt. When I realized my dad was trying to hurt me, I felt cheated.
I found out the truth when I told my parents. My father did what he did because he wanted to get back at my mother for admitting to having an affair. He wanted to punish me because he thought I wasn’t his real daughter.
I left the family home to get medical help for my skin and to take civil action against my parents. My father’s image was hurt, and when my mom tried to get in touch with me, I didn’t answer.
I’m happy and at peace again now that I live with Henry. I appreciate his help and am motivated to leave the bad things from my past behind and move on.
