Chapter 3
When I graduated high school and got accepted to Berkeley on scholarship, I thought distance might finally free me from the constant reminder of her favoritism.[]
But her coldness followed me through the phone lines. Our calls were brief and impersonal, as if I were a distant acquaintance rather than her daughter.[]
Meanwhile, despite Jason’s mediocre grades, Mom pulled every string and spent a small fortune to get him into a private college after he bombed his SATS.[]
When I found out, the inequity of it burned like acid.].
I didn’t understand why I have worked hard for so many years, but I still couldn’t get my mother’s approval.]]
After college, I secured a good position at a marketing firm and finally started building my own stable life. I thought I’d escaped her shadow at last.[]
Then came the phone call that shattered my illusion of independence.[]
“Emma, your brother’s getting married, and we’re short on money. Could you help him out?” The plea in her voice was unmistakable.]
I gripped the phone, bitterness rising in my throat. Mom never reached out unless it was for Jason.[]
“Mom, I have my own life and expenses. I can contribute something for Jason’s wedding, but I can’t cover everything.” I struggled to keep my voice level.[]
She was silent for a moment before responding coldly, “You’re his sister. You should be helping him more. This is his wedding–don’t be so selfish.“]]
Her words stabbed like needles into my heart. Why did she always prioritize Jason’s needs while dismissing mine entirely?]
In the end, I coughed up $150,000 for his wedding expenses.
But the bride left him less than a year later, complaining about his lack of ambition and income. My hard–earned savings–money I’d set aside dollar by dollar–gone without a trace.[]
