My sister was marrying Jack, her boyfriend of five years. As a gift, I offered $10,000 toward a house, thrilled for their future. Everything was planned—venue, flowers, and invitations. But one conversation changed it all.
Jack discovered my sister had been unfaithful, not with a stranger, but with a close college friend. He was devastated, and the wedding was canceled instantly. My sister, instead of remorse, seemed more upset about losing the celebration. Days later, she called me, demanding the $10,000 anyway—for a shopping spree to “cheer herself up.”
I was stunned. She had destroyed her relationship, yet acted entitled. Calmly, I refused. She yelled, accused me of being unfair, and even showed up at my doorstep, crying that she had nothing left. I reminded her that actions have consequences, and money wouldn’t fix what she had broken.
Weeks later, Jack chose forgiveness, though not reconciliation. My sister eventually apologized, finally accepting some responsibility. She didn’t get the $10,000, but she gained something more valuable: the chance to learn and change.
Sometimes, withholding is the greatest gift.
