At 17, I discovered a letter from my late father revealing a secret inheritance meant to secure my future. Overwhelmed, I shared the news with my mom, who quickly saw it as a solution to our family’s financial struggles. Despite my protests, she accessed the fund, spending $20,000 on home renovations and clothes for my step-siblings.

When I refused to share the remaining funds, my mom insisted it was a family obligation. “Violet will understand,” she said, but I felt betrayed. Seeking justice, I turned to my grandmother, who swiftly took legal action. The court ruled in my favor, forcing my mom to return the money.

The legal battle fractured our relationship. My mom felt I chose money over family, saying, “How could you do this to your own family?” Now living with my grandmother, I’m left wondering if the fight for my inheritance was worth losing my family. Was there another way?