Work Text:
All throughout his childhood, Miguel was either told “no” or “maybe” when he asked for stuff. It was most likely no, since his family always struggled with money.
Nowadays, Miguel has a part time job where he gets most of his income. Hopefully once he’s an adult he can start an actual career.
Though his family isn’t struggling as much as they used to, the guilt he gets from rewarding himself with things is too much for him to handle.
One day, he was invited to Target with Sam and Mr. LaRusso. Only had been there twice in his life, he accepted.
Target wouldn’t be nearly as bad as an expensive restaurant or hotel.
As the three arrived inside, Miguel looked around. The kid section immediately caught his eye.
From childhood, he had only ever owned toys made from cardboard and plastic. The most expensive toy he owned as a kid was probably a little teddy bear from the 99 cent store.
Seeing all the colorful toy cars and figures, he felt as if he was healing his inner child.
Just looking at all the toys made him feel joy inside. Like a little kid again, looking around the entire store, but never buying anything because they needed money for food and bills.
Sam was busy looking in the clothing section. Mr. LaRusso spotted him and walked up to him.
“Looking at toys, huh?” Mr. LaRusso joked.
Miguel looks up at him. “Just uh.. looking around.”
Miguel pulls out his wallet to see how much money he has.
12. 12 fucking dollars.
He knew this money could be used for something more important than a toy.
Though.. he felt too drawn to the idea of being a kid again.
Mr. LaRusso noticed his sudden change of mood. “I could buy it for you if you’d like.”
“I’m not a fucking charity case, LaRusso.”
With that, Miguel left that section. Tears were in his eyes, but he tried his best to not draw attention.
Miguel was so tired of people treating him like he was the poor Hispanic boy in need of support. Especially not from his fucking father in law.
Seeing people feel pity for him when he clearly didn’t want it.
Mr. LaRusso was just trying to be nice.
Sure.
But.. can’t Miguel do stuff for himself?
Or does he constantly need the reminder of the class difference between his girlfriend’s family and his family?