When Carla’s father asked her to move out to make room for a new baby, it felt like her world was collapsing once again. However, with the unwavering support of her grandparents, she found the strength to rebuild her life and uncover family secrets that left her questioning her loyalties—between her newfound independence and her family ties.
My name is Carla, and I’m 21 years old. Life has presented me with some serious challenges, especially after losing my mom when I was just 10. She was my anchor, and her passing turned my world upside down.
At 15, my dad remarried a woman named Linda, who had a daughter, Megan, just a year older than me. Over time, Dad and Linda welcomed two more children—Jimmy and, most recently, a baby girl.
I still remember the day Dad told me he was marrying Linda. “Carla, it’s time I move on,” he said gently. “Linda is good for us.”
“For us?” I asked, uncertain of what that meant for me.
“She has a daughter your age. It might be nice to have someone around,” Dad added, as if that would make it easier.
When Linda moved in, the family dynamic changed. She was kind but kept her distance initially. Eventually, Megan and I grew close, sharing both joyful moments and tough times.
However, things shifted again after Jimmy was born. Linda became a stay-at-home mom, and the household felt busier and more chaotic. I started working at a local grocery store at 16, partly for independence and partly to save for college. I felt proud of my growing responsibility.
Then, when I turned 18, my dad dropped a surprising news. He called me into his office and said, “Carla, you’re an adult now. You need to start contributing. From now on, you’ll pay $500 a month in rent.”
I was taken aback. “Dad, I’m saving for college,” I protested, but he remained firm.
“It’s only fair,” he replied, and though it hurt, I agreed. It wasn’t easy, but I managed to balance my savings and the rent.
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