I crossed my arms. “That’s not my problem. You made decisions without consulting me and assumed I’d be okay with everything. I’ve worked hard to earn what I have. I won’t let you manipulate me into giving up what’s mine.”

My father sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. “We didn’t mean to hurt you, Tessa.”

I softened a fraction, but held firm. “I know you didn’t intend to, but that doesn’t make it right. You need to respect my boundaries.”

There was a long pause before my mother spoke, her voice small. “We’re sorry.”

I nodded, feeling a mixture of relief and sadness. “I know you are. But you need to leave now.”