I supported my niece for years after my brother died, but I was never her parent. He left his inheritance to me by choice, and for a long time, money was never an issue between us. I showed up for her emotionally and helped when I could, believing we had a decent relationship.
Everything changed when she demanded I give her the inheritance for college and accused me of stealing from her. When I refused, she turned family and friends against me. Now I’m painted as the villain for honoring my brother’s wishes—and I’m left wondering if doing what’s legally and personally right always comes at the cost of family.
