“Madeline, what have you been buying with my card?" Derek inquired, barely containing his frustration as the call connected. “I've mentioned before that the company is tight on funds. Could you consider reducing your spending?"

"Ah, Derek, I've been shopping with my sisters. It's been ages since we last got together, so I picked out a few small gifts for them and something for myself. Is it wrong to want to give gifts?" Madeline's voice brimmed with hurt, and Derek could almost see her pouting, dampening his resolve to argue.

“It's not about not giving gifts." Derek softened his tone slightly.