12/24/2024
MY GRANDMA GAVE ME A MONTH UNTIL HER 70TH BIRTHDAY: EITHER I MARRY BY THIS TIME, OR I WILL BE CUT OFF FROM THE WILL
Never in my life could I have imagined that such a situation would happen to me. One afternoon at a noisy family gathering at my grandma's house, she asked for attention. When everyone quieted down and turned their attention to her, she said my name, "Sophie!", fixing her gaze on me. Jeez, I hate it when she does that!
"You have dedicated your life to your career, which is commendable. But you've paid a price by neglecting our cherished family values."
I shifted in my seat. I knew she would start this talk again, and... gosh, it was the worst feeling ever. Grandma's values were such an old cliche and felt like they were from another century! I'm a working woman!
Granny continued, "That is why I have decided, unless Sophie can find a husband by the time I turn 70 next month, she will not be included in my will."
"You can’t be serious," my voice was barely above a whisper. The problem was not about money or will: was I valued at this little by grandma? Was I just sort of an incubator or what? Anyway, she continued.
"I am utterly serious, Sophie. I cannot pass on my legacy to someone who shows no interest in continuing our family line."
That's it. I boiled over. I stood up against her.
"I've spent years building my career to become who I am today," I protested. "And now, just because I haven't married, you want to cut me off from the inheritance?!"
Instead of sorry, she just looked at me strictly.
"Life is about choices, Sophie. You chose your path, and now I am choosing mine."
Grandma's words were so painful, so I just stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind me. But tears aside, I think I really have no choice.
Little did I know what would happen when her birthday came up... 👇
