While grieving her husband’s death, Margaret discovers something that changes her understanding of their entire marriage. At 18, she defied her wealthy father to marry Daniel Hernandez, a man he disapproved of. Despite warnings about living in poverty, Margaret and Daniel built a modest life together, raising two children. Over time, Daniel became obsessed with financial security, influenced by his father’s death in an accident without leaving support for his family.
As years passed, Margaret’s father died, leaving his estate to her younger brother, and Daniel blamed himself for Margaret’s loss. He started working long hours, coming home late smelling of lilies. Margaret suspected he was having an affair, especially as their marriage grew distant and Daniel stopped showing affection. Despite her doubts, she said nothing, and Daniel passed away, leaving Margaret feeling both abandoned and bitter.After his death, while cleaning out his belongings, Margaret and her granddaughter Anna found a suitcase filled with $20 bills and an old journal. To Margaret’s shock, the journal revealed that Daniel had secretly taken on a second job working the night shift at the NYC sanitation department to save money for her future. The scent of lilies came from his nightly showers after his grueling work. He had hidden his efforts from Margaret to protect her, sacrificing his health to ensure her security. In the end, Margaret realized she had wasted years in doubt when Daniel had loved her all along. The story reminds us that trust is essential in love, and doubt can destroy relationships. Daniel’s sacrifice was an expression of his deep love, even when misunderstood.