I overheard my parents calling me their “ATM” as I was giving them $5K a month, “If she married…!”

Independence and Peace

“I will be moving out, and from now on I will not provide any financial support. Is that understood?”.

Reluctantly, my parents nodded. Violet gave me a kind smile, signaling a new chapter of independence and freedom from the financial exploitation. This exploitation was by the people who were supposed to protect me.

Without Violet’s intervention, I shudder to think where I might be today. Perhaps still scavenging leftovers during my school years or resorting to dubious means to make ends meet.

I still keep in touch with Violet, and my gratitude knows no bounds. The apartment I currently live in was secured through Violet’s assistance. This was a safeguard she arranged to ensure I could find safety quickly if problems arose.

Together, Violet and I left the establishment, leaving my parents to reflect on their actions. They later found jobs, and I heard they were managing to cover their living expenses and debts with their earnings. They were finally taking responsibility for their lives.

About a year after I moved out, my parents’ financial situation took a nose dive again. I got the details during a phone call from Mr. Andrew.

It turned out that Bennett, my father, had been persuaded by a gambling buddy to take on more debt. Now he was scrambling to find help to manage the repayments.

Mr. Andrew warned me that my father might try to reach out to me for assistance.

“Be careful,” Mr. Andrew advised. “He might even contact you.”

Sure enough, a few days later my parents called.

“Emily, I’m sorry to contact you like this. Did you hear about the debt?” my father began.

“I heard from Mr. Andrew. To be clear, I won’t lend you any more money,” I cut in before he could continue.

“Ah, please help me. I have no one else to turn to but you, Emily. This is the last time,” he pleaded.

“Why should I believe you?” I asked, tired of the same old story.

Their attempts to use me were clear, and I firmly refused their request, ending the conversation on bad terms. I had no regrets about it.

If severing ties meant freedom from their endless problems, then nothing could be better. Later, Mr. Andrew informed me that my parents had moved North.

They sold everything they could, abandoned their house, and left the urban area. “No matter where they hide, it’s useless,” he updated me with a laugh.

“They really are pitiable people. If they contact you, let me know right away. I’ll handle it before any trouble comes your way,” he offered.

“That helps a lot, thank you. I’ll definitely contact you if anything happens,” I replied, relieved to have his support.

Since then, I haven’t been in touch with Mr. Andrew, nor have I heard from my parents. Thankfully, no new problems have arisen. I hope for continued peace and to avoid any further dealings with my troubled parents or the loan industry.

In the midst of all this, Violet introduced me to a very charming man. He was a distant relative of hers, around my age, and ran his own business.

After I showed him some of my artwork, he was impressed and wanted to display one of my pieces in his office. We were making arrangements for that and even planning a date at an art museum.

I went to Violet to talk about the new developments.

“It’s great that things are working out between you two. I’m glad I introduced him. Let me know if there are any new developments,” she said with a smile.

“Thank you, Violet. I’m always grateful for your support. I don’t even know how to properly thank you,” I replied.

“Don’t worry about it. I love helping; it makes me happy to see you smile, Emily,” Violet responded.

Reflecting on the days of struggling with troublesome parents, searching for leftovers, and living in a cluttered house, I felt grateful for the present. I was surrounded by trustworthy people and had met someone special.

I acknowledge that life, despite its hardships, was worthwhile. Believing in this, I intended to continue living positively, valuing my individuality, and embracing the new opportunities ahead.