This happened on Saturday. I’m 17M. On Thursday, Heather (my dad’s wife) told me to call out of work because she had a doctor’s appointment and needed someone to babysit my three half-siblings (all under 3). I told her no and that she’d have to find someone else. My dad, who works Saturdays, said his job was “more important” than mine and that I should “enjoy” a day of being a big brother instead of focusing so much on work and school. I told them I was still going to work.

On Saturday, Dad left early. Heather said she was leaving at 8 for her appointment, so I was expected to watch the kids. Instead, I skipped breakfast, left for work early, and ate elsewhere. She tried calling me as I left, but I ignored her.

By lunchtime I had about 10 missed calls from her and several from Dad, saying I’d made her miss her appointment. I ignored them all. When I got home, Heather yelled that I’d known she had an appointment. I reminded her she knew I wasn’t calling out of work. She tried to take my phone, but I refused.

Later Dad came home angry, lecturing me about “family responsibilities” and saying my half-siblings didn’t deserve to be “walked out on.” He said Heather missed her appointment because I’m “spiteful” about their marriage and warned that I’d ruin family relationships if I kept this up. The next day they expected an apology, but I have none.

The truth is, I focus on work and school so I can move out as soon as possible. I’m saving every penny to go no-contact once I’m 18. Dad knows but doesn’t think I’m serious. I am.