My parents forbade me from celebrating my 18th birthday because my sister didn’t feel special enough. So I moved out that night. A year later, their golden girl saw how successful I’d become, and her jealous meltdown shattered the family.

through that,” I said—and I meant it. “But I need to get back to networking.”

“Wait,” she said quickly. “Can we maybe get coffee sometime? I’d really like to talk more. I miss you.”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“Please, Emma. I know I was awful. I know I took advantage of how Mom and Dad treated you. I’m trying to be better.”

I looked at her—really continue reading …