My parents left everything to my brother, so I stopped paying their bills. A month later, my mother sent me a text message.

If something needs fixing, they should figure it out themselves. If they run out of food, they should go shopping themselves. And above all: when the mortgage payment is due, that’s no longer my problem.

The silence lasted about two weeks. I think at first they thought I was just in a bad mood and would be back to my old self. Perhaps they hoped I would calm down and apologize for daring to question their decision.

But the days passed, and I heard nothing from them. And most importantly: there was no money. You could practically feel their attitude changing.

Then one day my phone vibrated. A text message from Dad. The deadline for the property tax return was approaching.

And that was it. No “Hello, how are you?” No “I’m sorry.” No “We really appreciate everything you’ve done for us.”

A cold, serious message, as if I were still their personal ATM, accessible at any time. I stared at the screen, almost amused by its predictability. Did they really think they could demand money as if nothing had happened?

That I would continue to be their financial savior, even after they had made it clear they no longer needed me. I replied promptly: “I think Eric will be fine with it, since the house now belongs to him.”

Exactly five minutes later, my mother called. I didn’t answer. Then I received a text message.

Mother: “Jacob, please don’t be like that. We need to talk.”

Continue reading…