I thought joining my dad and stepmom on a family cruise would bring us closer. But things didn’t go as planned.Linda, my stepmom, had asked me to help plan the trip. I spent a week researching and booking everything, making sure it was perfect.

When I sent over the itinerary, Linda called and insisted I come along. She said it’d be a great family memory, and after all my work, I deserved a break.I agreed and paid for my own ticket, looking forward to spending quality time with the family. But when we arrived, Linda handed me a room key for a cabin with the two girls, Lily and Sophie, instead of getting my own space. Linda explained they needed privacy, and I was great with the girls. I wasn’t thrilled but went along with it.