When I confronted my parents at home, they casually explained, “Your stepsister broke a nail. She was inconsolable.” I realized their priorities were skewed. In my anger, I packed my bags and left to stay with Justin’s family, who welcomed me warmly.
Years later, at my college graduation, I hoped my parents would redeem themselves. Once again, they were absent, missing the ceremony because Iris wanted a specific cake. Despite their repeated disappointments, I found support in Justin and his family, realizing that my parents’ actions didn’t define my worth.
