Dad: Grinning sheepishly Damn, kiddo! Thought you’d never find out! How's that secret gift stash treating ya?
Stranger
I get a call from my boyfriend saying he wants to break up
Dad looks at you, sensing your distress. He puts a hand on your shoulder
Dad: Hey kiddo... Everything alright?
Stranger
It’s been nice, but why did you send them?
Dad shrugs nonchalantly, still grinning.
Dad: Well, I figured you could use a little pick-me-up, y'know? Plus, it's kinda fun seeing how long I could keep my secret gift-giving under wraps.
Stranger
I kinda do but I can’t tell anyone. He doesn’t know about them.
Dad chuckles Yeah, well, I guess my secret-keeping skills aren't too shabby then. But hey, who am I to deny myself some good old-fashioned meddling?
Stranger
smiles It’s amazing. Thank you so much, Dad.
Dad: Pats you on the back You're welcome, kiddo. I know it might seem a bit weird that I've been sending them secretly, but hey! A dad's gotta do what a dad's gotta do to show his love, right?
Stranger
she looks at him shocked what do you mean
He grins wider, crossing his arms Oh come on, kiddo. Don't act all innocent now. You found the secret gift stash I've been sending you, didn't ya?
Stranger
it’s amazing but why did u keep this a secret
Rubs the back of his neck, looking sheepish Oh, you know how it is. I didn’t want to come off as some weirdo trying to meddle in your love life. Plus, I had a hunch you’d appreciate the surprise factor!
Stranger
I’ve been going through them…why did you send them though..?
Dad chuckles and scratches the back of his head.
Well, I suppose I wanted to show that I still care about you. Even if you're grown up now with someone else, you're still my kiddo.
Stranger
laughs awkwardly What the hell, Dad? Seriously?
Chuckles, hands in pockets Well, I couldn't just let you go on dating that guy without some competition now could I? Gotta keep my options open!
Stranger
I look at him surprised What do you mean dad?
Dad: chuckles Don't act all innocent now, kiddo. You've been receiving those secret gifts, haven't you? I know damn well it was me sending them to ya!
Stranger
I look at him confused what do you mean?
Dad chuckles
Dad: Oh, c’mon! You don’t think all those little surprises just showed up on your doorstep by magic, right? That was all me. Gotta keep my favorite kid happy!
Stranger
I knew it was you all along
Dad chuckles, clearly enjoying the fact that you caught him.
Dad: Oh really? So I guess the cat’s out of the bag now, huh?
Stranger
oh I love them they’re so cute shows him the box full of stuff he sent me
His smile widens at the sight of your full box
Dad: You like them, huh? Glad you appreciate my taste in gifts. It's not easy finding stuff that suits someone as unique as you are.
Stranger
I found them all under my bed… what’s going on? Why didn’t you tell me?
Dad chuckles nervously, scratching the back of his head.
Well, kiddo... I figured it'd be more fun to keep it a secret! Plus, you seemed so happy with your boyfriend. Didn't want to ruin that for ya.
He grins slyly.
Stranger
I don't want anything to do with you. You betrayed my trust.
Dad's smile fades as your words hit him like a punch in the gut. He takes a step back, visibly hurt.
Dad: Wait... what? Betrayed your trust? Kiddo, I was just trying to show you that I care about you!
Stranger
it’s nice but it’s getting kinda crowded I have like 20 boxes
Dad chuckles, his grin widening
Dad: Well, I guess it's a good problem to have! But hey, you know what they say about too many gifts – the more, the merrier, right?
Stranger
blushes and smiles I'm sorry. I should have told you sooner.
Dad: Oh, pffft! No need to apologize. I get it, you were all caught up in that new relationship of yours. But hey, looks like my secret gift game is still on point, huh?
Stranger
You know I'm dating someone right now.
Dad raises an eyebrow and shrugs nonchalantly
Dad: Yeah, yeah, I know you're dating someone. But what's the harm in getting some extra treats? Consider it a little something from your old man.
Stranger
What… how did you know what I was doing?
Dad: Chuckles Please, kiddo. I'm a parent. I know everything you do. Plus, your online activity isn't as discreet as you think it is!
Stranger
confused look What secret gift stash, Dad? You're not usually this mysterious.
Dad chuckles, clearly enjoying the element of surprise Oh, you know... just little surprises I've been leaving here and there. Thought it'd be fun to keep things interesting!