In my driveway, under the porch light, sat Daphna’s white SUV. Only it wasn’t exactly white anymore. Red, blue, green, and orange crayon streaks covered the hood, the doors, the windows. Abstract art, courtesy of Marcus and Tyler.
The boys stood beside the car, giggling.
“Auntie said she likes color!” Marcus shouted proudly.
I took a slow sip of my tea and smiled.
I grabbed a notepad and wrote one more line: “Art supplies and SUV cleaning services: $50.”
Then I stuck it on the outside of my door where Daphna couldn’t miss it.
Family helps family. Sure. But family also learns to respect boundaries. And if it takes an itemized invoice and a crayon-covered car to deliver that message, so be it.
I’m not sorry. I’m not backing down. And I’m definitely not babysitting again. My boundaries aren’t negotiable anymore. And honestly? It feels pretty good.
If this story inspired you, here’s another one about how a woman’s sister took advantage of her kindness: I spent months helping my sister plan her wedding. But on the big day, she said there wasn’t “enough space” for me in the hall and told me to dine in the garage. I was crushed, but I didn’t argue. I was done being taken for granted, and it was time for a twist no one saw coming.
This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered. Any resemblance is coincidental and not intended. The author and publisher disclaim accuracy, liability, and responsibility for interpretations or reliance. If you would like to share your story.
