It was all lies—Mom’s lies. Rick welcomed me into his family with warmth I had never known. He introduced me to his wife and kids, treated me as his own, and even gifted me a small house. For the first time, I felt chosen. But peace shattered when Mom and Kira showed up and tried moving in without permission.
When I demanded they leave, Mom begged, threatened, and finally stormed out. I changed the locks. Now I have a family that chooses me, a home that is mine, and a freedom I never imagined possible