My Sister Texted the Family Chat: “Don’t Come to Mom’s Birthday. We’re Sick of Your Family.” So I…

But boundaries weren’t punishment.

They were the price of being in my life now.

“I can be in her life,” I said. “If she respects my limits.”

Dad nodded quickly. “She’ll try.”

I looked at him. “And Lily?”

Dad’s jaw tightened. “She’s moving back in,” he admitted, shame flickering. “Just until she gets on her feet.”

I didn’t argue. I just said, “Then she’ll continue reading …