Last year, I saw my family’s Mussoorie trip on my brother’s Instagram, excluding me. Mom claimed it was due to budget issues. Then, I won $400K in the lottery. Mom demanded it as “family money,” listing expenses like Dad’s dental work and Dhaval’s loan. I refused, needing time. Yesterday, a police officer arrived, citing a complaint about “financial misconduct.” Mom falsely claimed I used her joint account to buy the ticket. I cleared it with bank statements at the station. Dad later called, saying Mom’s religious group pushed her “family karma” claim. I hired
a lawyer to secure my winnings and cut Mom from my account. Dhaval’s ex, Arya, revealed his history of manipulating family for money, urging me to protect myself. I donated $50K to an education fund and invested in a co-working space, telling no one. Mom’s letter accused me of choosing “strangers over blood.” I replied, “I learned not to be taken.” Now, in a new apartment, I tutor and mentor, keeping my peace. Family doesn’t mean entitlement—boundaries are survival.