When my boss, Linda, demanded I babysit her kids or lose my job, she thought she had me trapped. What she didn’t know was that I’d already accepted a better offer—and her ultimatum would be her biggest mistake.

I’d always taken my career seriously, working hard through school and earning my way into a marketing role at a real estate firm in Dallas. Things were great—until Linda showed up six months ago. She was flashy, confident, and at first, friendly. But that soon turned into emotional oversharing, endless drama about her divorce, and boundary-pushing requests.

At first, it was “drop off my blazer,” then “book my kid’s dentist appointment.” Eventually, she demanded I come in early, rewrite presentations overnight, and answer late-night emails—all with a smile and a guilt trip. I tried to draw the line, but Linda had other ideas.

Then came the final straw. “Babysit my daughters tonight,” she said, “or don’t bother coming in Monday.” What she didn’t realize was that I’d already landed a better job. I agreed to her demand, showed up at her house, and as soon as she left, I texted her: I quit. And just so you know, I called your ex—he’s picking up the girls.

Mike arrived grateful and surprised. Two weeks later, I walked into my new office with a boss who respected boundaries. The lesson? A happy boss doesn’t mean a happy worker—especially when respect is one-sided.