Every summer, my stepmom collects $700 from each of us to rent a beach house. But somehow, there’s always only enough room for her kids and their families. I get the same line every year: “There wasn’t enough space — maybe next time.” When I brought it up, my dad warned me, “Don’t you dare make a scene.” I smiled, agreed, and handed over my $700 like usual.
But 15 minutes before they were set to leave, I showed up with my suitcase. When my stepmom protested, “There’s no room,” I simply said, “That’s fine — I rented another cabin right next door with my own money.” Then I invited my half-siblings’ kids over for ice cream and games. By the second day, most of the family was spending their time at my cabin instead of hers.
