A week later, Layla and Toby returned the car, and I was shocked. It was covered in scratches and dents, and the inside smelled of rotten onions. When I confronted Layla, she denied it, and Toby sided with her. I realized I couldn’t fight this out with them—it was clear I had no proof, and Layla had already played the victim well enough.
Instead, I decided to teach her a lesson. After a bit of research, I found a solution. I bought animal attractant spray and carefully sprayed it around their property at night. The next morning, Toby called, frantic. “Mom, I need help! The yard stinks, and wild animals have made a mess! We don’t know what to do!”
Feigning surprise, I told him, “That’s what happens when you ruin someone else’s property.” I’m sure Layla knew exactly who was behind it.
Since then, Layla hasn’t dared to cross me again. Toby now calls regularly to check on me, and Layla’s behavior has softened. Sometimes, standing up for yourself is the only way to break through someone else’s control.
What would you have done if you were in my shoes?